Split Squat (Medicine Ball)

Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
medicine ball
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

A split squat variation where you hold a medicine ball at chest height, adding resistance to the lower body movement.

Instructions

  1. Start in a staggered stance with one foot forward and one foot back, holding a medicine ball at chest height.
  2. Keep your torso upright and core engaged throughout the movement.
  3. Lower your body by bending both knees until your back knee nearly touches the ground.
  4. Your front knee should track over your ankle without extending past your toes.
  5. Drive through your front heel to return to the starting position.
  6. Complete all reps on one leg, then switch legs.

Tips

  • Maintain an upright posture and avoid leaning forward.
  • The medicine ball at chest height helps counterbalance and engages your core.
  • Keep your front knee aligned with your foot to prevent inward collapse.
  • Take a longer stride to increase glute activation.
  • This variation provides unilateral loading, helping identify and correct strength imbalances.

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 3 7 reps 4 kg 3 kg
Build muscle 3 10 reps 4 kg 3 kg
Build endurance 3 14 reps 3 kg 2 kg

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