Landmine Cossack Squat (Barbell)

Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
barbell
Category
strength
Secondary Muscles

A lateral squat variation using a landmine barbell that emphasizes adductor strength and mobility while maintaining hip stability and lower body balance.

Instructions

  1. Load one end of the barbell into a landmine attachment.
  2. Stand facing the barbell with feet wider than shoulder-width apart.
  3. Grip the end of the barbell at chest height with both hands.
  4. Keep your torso upright and shift your weight entirely to one leg.
  5. Lower your hips toward the side that is weighted, keeping that leg bent and the other leg straight.
  6. Push through the heel of the weighted leg to return to the starting position.
  7. Repeat for the desired number of reps, then switch sides.
  8. Alternate sides for a complete set.

Tips

  • Maintain an upright torso throughout to maximize adductor engagement.
  • Move with control to protect your knee joints and develop stability.
  • The landmine angle makes this variation more accessible than free-weight versions.
  • Stretch your inner thighs between sets to improve mobility.
  • Focus on keeping your weight through the heel of the loaded leg.
  • This exercise works great as a warm-up or accessory for leg day.

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.

intermediate strength