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Dumbbell Squat

BEGINNER

Dumbbell Squat

Dumbbell Squat is a beginner movement that builds muscle in the lower body and has many benefits for general functional fitness. This exercise targets the quadriceps muscles (front of the thighs) and gluteus maximus (buttocks).

Demonstration Video

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Target Muscles

Instructions

  1. Hold a pair of dumbbells with your arms fully extended by your sides, palms facing each other. Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart, toes pointing out.
  2. Tighten your abs, bring your hips back and bend your knees, lowering your body into a squat, keeping your arms at your sides. Pause at the bottom and then return to the starting position.

Tips

  • Don't let the dumbbells slouch at the shoulders. Instead, keep your shoulder blades together.
  • Don't let your knees bend inward. Instead, apply pressure to the outer edges of your feet and squeeze your glutes throughout the movement.

Alternative Exercises

Back Squat

STRENGTH BARBELL SQUAT RACK

Back Squat specifically targets the posterior chain — or the back of your body — including the lower back, glutes, and hamstrings. The quads and core are also engaged. Back Squat allows you to add weight quicker, which promotes strength and power.

Barbell Front Squat

STRENGTH BARBELL SQUAT RACK

Barbell Front Squat is one of the best compound exercises that lights up your lower body and posterior chain. When you load more bodyweight on the front of your body instead of your back, it activates more muscles in your quads using less weight. Front squ...

Bodyweight Squat

STRENGTH NO EQUIPMENT

Bodyweight Squat builds your lower-body muscles that specifically activate muscles like the hamstrings, quadriceps, glutes, and calf muscles. Doing squats can help you prepare for other strength-training exercises like deadlifts.

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Author

Owen
Owen Jones
Owen
Updated: 17 Sep 2024