Jump Squat (Barbell)

Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
barbell
Category
plyometrics
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

A plyometric exercise where the lifter explodes upward from a squat position with added barbell resistance.

Instructions

  1. Place a barbell across your shoulders and stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. Lower into a squat position until your thighs are parallel to the floor.
  3. Explosively drive upward through your legs, jumping as high as possible.
  4. Land softly in a slight squat position to absorb impact.
  5. Immediately descend into the next squat and repeat.

Tips

  • Use relatively light weight to allow for explosive power development
  • Focus on explosive power generation rather than heavy loading
  • Land softly and control the eccentric (lowering) portion
  • This builds lower body power and athleticism
  • Advanced athletes can increase loading for strength-power development
  • Perfect training for athletic performance and power sports

Recommended starting values

Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.

Goal Sets Reps Weight
Male Female
Gain strength 5 5 reps 32.5 kg 22.5 kg
Build muscle 5 8 reps 30 kg 20 kg
Build endurance 5 10 reps 22.5 kg 15 kg

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

beginner plyometrics
intermediate plyometrics
intermediate plyometrics
beginner plyometrics
intermediate plyometrics
intermediate plyometrics
intermediate plyometrics
intermediate plyometrics
beginner plyometrics
beginner plyometrics
beginner plyometrics
intermediate plyometrics
intermediate plyometrics
intermediate plyometrics