Legs
The main muscle group listed for this exercise.
Exercise guide
Jefferson Squats
Jefferson Squats is an intermediate-level leg exercise performed with a barbell. It also involves the glutes and back.
Barbell
The equipment listed for this variation.
Intermediate
The recorded setup and movement complexity.
Legs
Jefferson Squats also involves glutes, back.
Strength
Movement pattern: squat. This is a compound exercise.
Intermediate
This level reflects the setup and movement complexity recorded for this exercise.
Instructions
How to do Jefferson Squats
- Place a barbell on the floor.
- Stand in the middle of the bar length wise.
- Bend down by bending at the knees and keeping your back straight and grasp the front of the bar with your right hand. Your palm should be in (neutral grip) facing the left side.
- Grasp the rear of the bar with your left hand. The palm of your hand should be in neutral grip alignment (palms facing the right side). Tip: Ensure that your grip is even on the bar. Your torso should be positioned right in the middle of the bar and the distance between your torso and your right hand (which should be at the front) should be the same as the distance between your torso and your left hand (which should be to your back).
- Now stand straight up with the weight. Tip: Your feet should be shoulder width apart and your toes slightly pointed out.
- Squat down by bending at the knees and keeping your back straight until your upper thighs are parallel with the floor. Tip: Keep your back as vertical as possible with the floor and your head up. Also remember to not let your knees go past your toes. Inhale during this portion of the movement.
- Now drive yourself back up to the starting position by pushing with the feet . Tip: Keep the bar hanging at arm's length and your elbows locked with a slight bend. The arms only serve as hooks. Avoid doing any lifting with them. Do the lifting with your thighs; not your arms.
Related workouts
Workout templates that use this exercise.
If you want to see this movement inside a more complete training session, start here.
3-Day Full Body Split
A three-day split that spreads total weekly work across three full-body sessions.
View workout4-Day Upper Lower Split
A simple four-day split that gives each half of the body two quality sessions each week.
View workout5-Day Bodybuilding Split
A traditional five-day bodybuilding split for lifters who enjoy focusing on one or two regions per session.
View workoutRelated exercises
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Barbell Full Squat
Barbell Full Squat is an intermediate-level leg exercise performed with a barbell. It also involves the glutes and back.
View exerciseBarbell Hack Squat
Barbell Hack Squat is an intermediate-level leg exercise performed with a barbell. It also involves the arms and glutes.
View exerciseBox Squat
Box Squat is an intermediate-level leg exercise performed with a barbell. It also involves the glutes and back.
View exerciseFrankenstein Squat
Frankenstein Squat is an intermediate-level leg exercise performed with a barbell. It also involves the core and glutes.
View exerciseRelated tools
Related calculators for this exercise.
Use these calculators when you want to connect the exercise itself to calories, protein, strength targets, or training volume.
FAQ
Common questions about Jefferson Squats.
What muscles does Jefferson Squats work?
Jefferson Squats primarily trains the legs and also involves the glutes and back.
Is Jefferson Squats beginner-friendly?
It is listed as intermediate.
What equipment do I need for Jefferson Squats?
This variation uses a barbell.
Track this exercise for free in Logbook.
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