Sit Squats

A partial-range squat performed by descending only partway before returning to standing. Develops leg strength while providing benefits of a dynamic stretch for hip and leg muscles.
Instructions
- Stand upright with your feet positioned approximately shoulder-width apart.
- Keep your chest up and maintain good posture throughout the movement.
- Begin by flexing your hips and knees, sitting back as if reaching for a chair.
- Lower yourself downward until you’ve descended approximately one-quarter to one-half of the way to parallel.
- Maintain this partial squat position without fully descending to parallel.
- Quickly and dynamically reverse the motion, extending your hips and knees.
- Return to standing position explosively.
- Repeat for the prescribed number of repetitions without extended pause.
Tips
- The partial range of motion is intentional; do not descend past parallel.
- This movement combines strength development with dynamic stretching benefits.
- Keep your weight centered in your heels; avoid shifting forward onto your toes.
- Maintain an upright torso throughout; avoid excessive forward lean.
- Perform 5-10 reps per set; this is a warm-up or auxiliary exercise.
- The quick, dynamic nature provides cardiovascular benefit alongside strength work.
- Excellent as a warm-up before full-range squats.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 7 reps |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 reps |
| Build endurance | 3 | 14 reps |
Alternatives
Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.
Squat to Stand
Learn more about squat to stand beginner stretching