Classification
| Utility: | Basic or Auxiliary |
| Mechanics: | Compound |
| Force: | Push |
Instructions
Preparation
Stand in front of adjustable height bench or box. Extend arms out in front of body. Balance on one leg with opposite leg extended forward off of ground.
Execution
Squat down while keeping leg elevated off of floor. Keep back straight and supporting knee pointed same direction as foot supporting. Once bottocks makes contact with bench or box, raise body back up to original position until knee and hip of supporting leg is straight. Repeat and continue with opposite leg.
Comments
Range of motion will be improved with greater leg strength. Supporting knee should point same direction as foot throughout movement. Weighted versions of this exercise would normally be considered auxiliary in context of other basic exercises (ie: Barbell Squat, Sled Leg Press). However, in the context of 'body weight' only program, this exercise can be considered basic. Also known as Bench Pistol Squat or Single Leg Bench Squat.
Easier
Begin with short range of motion by using high bench or box. Placing heel on floor momentarily during lower portion of squat can allow for slight self-assistance during hardest portion of exercise. Alternatively, consider performing easier versions of this movement:
- Single Leg Partial Box Squat
- Single Leg Reclining Squat (bar)
- Self-assisted Single Leg Squat (bar)
- Self-assisted Single Leg Squat (leg wrapped)
Harder
For greater challenge, use progressively lower bench or box height. As time passes, use no box or bench.
Muscles
Stabilizers (Raised Leg)
