Wall Sit
An isometric exercise where you hold a seated position against a wall, primarily targeting the quadriceps and glutes.
Instructions
- Stand with your back against a wall, feet hip-width to shoulder-width apart.
- Position your feet approximately 12-18 inches away from the wall.
- Slide down the wall by bending your knees until your thighs are parallel to the ground, with knees at a 90-degree angle.
- Keep your back and head firmly pressed against the wall.
- Hold this position for the prescribed duration, maintaining tension in your thighs.
- Push through your heels to slide back up the wall to the starting position.
Tips
- Ensure your knees stay directly above your ankles and don’t extend past your toes.
- Keep your arms relaxed, either crossed at your chest or resting on your thighs.
- Tighten your quadriceps and glutes to maintain the position without slouching.
- Breathe steadily and avoid holding your breath during the hold.
- If the position feels too intense, adjust your feet further from the wall to reduce the angle.
- For added difficulty, hold dumbbells or add a medicine ball on your lap.
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 | Hold |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 15 s |
| Build muscle | 3 | 25 s |
| Build endurance | 3 | 35 s |