Quad Exercises Ranked (BEST TO WORST!)

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  • Опубліковано 12 чер 2024
  • There are so many quad exercises, but which ones should you be focusing your efforts on if you want to build bigger quads and increase your strength? In this video, I’m going to give you the most popular quad exercises ranked from worst to best and help you to determine which you should be doing and which you can probably ditch.
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    With that said, we have to lay out the criteria for the quad exercise selections. These are in the video.
    Furthermore, if there is a steep learning curve to the movement or it is too equipment reliant then it may mot rank as high as some other options that are better and also don’t require as many resources.
    With that being said, we start laying out the list and work our way up the rankings from the worst chest exercise to the best chest exercise.
    WORST
    1. Sissy Squat
    2. Smith Machine Squats
    The sissy squat is one of the better exercises you can do to strengthen the tendons in your knees given the proper progression, but it is a weak exercise choice for trying to build to quads. The lack of overload in this exercise is one of the biggest drawbacks for creating hypertrophy.
    The smith machine squat is probably the worst version of a squat you can do. The fixed nature of the movement does not allow for an individual’s proper biomechanics to come into play. Angled or straight, you’re better off avoiding this version of the squat if you can
    BETTER
    3. Drop Squats
    4. Goblet Squats
    5. Heavy Resistance Bike (Hill Riding)
    6. Leg Extensions
    Drop squats are great for learning the proper mechanics of a squat, but do are limited in the ability to sufficiently load the exercise.
    Goblet squats are great for a more metabolic pursuit of hypertrophy but the limit in load based on available weight as well as your thoracic mobility / strength will play a limiting factor into the exercise as well.
    You’d be hard pressed to find a serious cycler without large quads. Make sure to crank up the resistance and keep consistent with your efforts to see the most gains.
    Leg extensions have the ability to directly isolate the quads, but if you have existing knee issues, this exercise could simply make them worse.
    BETTER STILL
    7. Leg Press (Feet Low)
    8. DB Step Ups
    9. Sled Push / Pull
    10. DB Spanish Squats / TKE Split Squats
    The leg press allows you to use some heavy weight, but you have to make sure that you are going through the full range of motion to get the most benefits out of the exercise.
    DB step ups are a great choice for an eccentric focus on the quads, but you might be challenged on the amount of weight you can use as well as your balance.
    The sled push and pull are excellent options for athletes looking to grow their quads without a focus on the eccentric, but you’ll have to have to access to a sled and enough surface area to use it.
    The Spanish squat and TKE split squat are the perfect replacement for the leg extensions but allow assistance muscles to work in concert as well.
    ALMOST BEST
    11. Hack Squats
    12. Bulgarian Split Squats
    13. High Bar Back Squats
    14. DB / BB Reverse Lunge
    The hack squat takes the smith machine squat and makes it better by allowing for the body to move naturally even within a fixed path.
    Bulgarian split squats are one of my favorite quad exercises that can be loaded heavy and challenges one leg at a time to combat muscle imbalances.
    The high bar back squat is the king of all leg exercises and allows for significant overload, but believe it or not, you can better target the quads.
    I love the reverse lunge for the ability to overload as well as how it feels for someone with knee problems.
    BEST
    15. Front Squats
    16. Belt Squats
    There simply is no better quad exercise for building big quads than the front squat. The ability to overload the exercise and it’s direct targeting of the quads makes it a top choice for building the quads.
    The belt squat is one option that I put directly with the front squat in the best category and shouldn’t be ignored if you have access to it.
    For a complete step by step workout program that was created with the same level of science behind the selection of every exercise in the plans, be sure to head to athleanx.com via the link below and check out our workout programs designed to get you to reach your goals.
    For more videos on exercises for a bigger quads and the leg workouts / quad exercises be sure to remember to subscribe to our channel here on youtube via the link below and remember to turn on your notifications so you never miss a new video when it’s published.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 2 тис.

  • @athleanx
    @athleanx  Рік тому +188

    *THE GIVEAWAY IS BACK* - I’m giving away my brand new complete 90 Day Beaxst PPL program to 40 lucky clickers within the first hour this video is published! Remember, this is NOT THE FIRST 40, but those randomly selected within the first hour the video is published. Click the link to see if you’ve won. No strings attached! Clicking twice does nothing. Only one entry per video. Remember to watch to the end for more workouts.
    giveaway.athleanx.com/ytg/quad-exercises-ranked
    If you don’t win, no worries, you’re not going away empty handed. Just be sure you have your notifications turned on so you can get to my next video quickly and try again. Good luck and thanks for being a loyal subscriber…

    • @AnAs-wm6cb
      @AnAs-wm6cb Рік тому

      Jeff help!! I tried the 100 Shoulder workout yesterday and the 100 chest today and I made sure to do all the workouts perfectly, I even had expert guys spot me and all, but the thing is, I don't feel anything in my chest or shoulders at all, it feels like all the work is in my arms (biceps, triceps, forearms) please advise if its okay for me to continue using the 100 series to workout a single muscle group each day

    • @dontbugme7362
      @dontbugme7362 Рік тому

      Don’t forget to add the Dont Know Squat in your Worst category next time

    • @Ernesto-jw8pb
      @Ernesto-jw8pb Рік тому

      Genial Jeff como siempre 🙂

    • @Ice-Sikill
      @Ice-Sikill Рік тому

      Would do Landmine attachment squats using a belt like u would for Weighted dips or pull ups but instead harness the barbell between your legs be as good as a belt squat?

    • @ith3323
      @ith3323 Рік тому +1

      What about the nordic quad extensions? Where do they place?

  • @RipRoaringGarage
    @RipRoaringGarage Рік тому +1556

    My mom thanks you Jeff! Shes 62 and crushing it. Shes my gym buddy, and shes making HUGE strength gains. Went from 3lbs to 12lbs db...and were about to go more. Im really proud of her for sticking with things!

    • @jovanmijailovic5202
      @jovanmijailovic5202 Рік тому +42

      Your mom is your gym buddy? What about your aunt? She is your coach?

    • @RipRoaringGarage
      @RipRoaringGarage Рік тому +508

      @@jovanmijailovic5202 Laugh all you want. But in the end, its helping her, and helping me too. Had a broken cervical spine and lumbar spine.
      Point is, there are no excuses, and anyone can get on board and get healthy.

    • @velkykopyto7021
      @velkykopyto7021 Рік тому

      @jovanmijailovic5202 yes his aunt is his coach and your mom is his sex trainer…

    • @beepbeepboop-
      @beepbeepboop- Рік тому +328

      @@RipRoaringGarage Ignore that guy, you're always gonna have people that like to act cool on the internet. Good for you and your mom to be active in the gym and working on yourself!

    • @vishaalmohandas3836
      @vishaalmohandas3836 Рік тому +161

      ​@@jovanmijailovic5202 Well, that was unnecessarily sarcastic. My father was my gym buddy. He's 77 today and can still beat the socks off me at a game of basketball. All that lifelong Army discipline sure paid off for him. You have no idea what kind of grit his mother brings to the table. That counts more than brute strength coz it'll always last longer.

  • @troystievater381
    @troystievater381 Рік тому +101

    Doing 10 second static holds after each leg extension set helped completely eliminate my patellar tendon pain. I’ve been dealing with with for years and it’s gone now.

    • @richbrake9910
      @richbrake9910 9 місяців тому +6

      Thanks for the information. You probably had an imbalance in the tendons. The static holds are great for hypertrophy also.

    • @charleshorseman55
      @charleshorseman55 3 місяці тому +1

      A really good leg extension machine that is well-adjusted and allowances for very good eccentric loading/stretch coupled with the unique maximal resistance at full contraction is basically the best thing you can do for your lower quads that support your knee. A poor machine/poor settings may do the opposite however.

    • @salsadip7453
      @salsadip7453 3 місяці тому

      @@richbrake9910 any other way to target the imbalances? i dont want to use any leg machines due to various reasons

    • @secanlau1020
      @secanlau1020 Місяць тому

      Lunges ​@@salsadip7453

  • @Kirbyfarts
    @Kirbyfarts Рік тому +90

    Been following your vids and incorporating some of your works outs and I have to say thank you. My gains have been skyrocketing. My coworkers always calling me the strong guy now, and my gf is always telling me about my muscles looking great. Really changing my life

  • @dbongo1
    @dbongo1 Рік тому +403

    I love these exercise ranking videos. Keep ranking more specific muscles exercises as well as compounds

    • @shahinghasemkhani8651
      @shahinghasemkhani8651 Рік тому +2

      compounds are great

    • @mcpartridgeboy
      @mcpartridgeboy Рік тому

      the best arm excersice is wanking.

    • @trey8005
      @trey8005 11 місяців тому +1

      this dude is incredibly wrong about most of his information

    • @mcpartridgeboy
      @mcpartridgeboy 11 місяців тому +9

      @@trey8005 ive based my entire routine on this channel alone and its been great, everything i did before has been replaced by better excersises and i am getting great results ! He has dedicated his life to this kind of thing, its hard to believe is is incredibly wrong.

  • @jamesgreen3433
    @jamesgreen3433 Рік тому +16

    I love all of these videos. They've really helped me get started working out more effectively with weights. Much appreciated Jeff!

  • @mrsbootsworkouts
    @mrsbootsworkouts Рік тому +21

    Thank you so much for going over the variety of quad exercises!! You are a wealth of information!, and have helped me so much to expand my variety of leg exercises!!!

  • @chadklasens4927
    @chadklasens4927 Рік тому +27

    Excellent as Always 🙏🙏I did some DB Bulgarian splits yesterday same weight as Jesse, 35 lbs each arm for the first time in a long time! Feeling today. Forgot how challenging they can be. Good stuff 🔥

  • @bbarnard91able
    @bbarnard91able 11 місяців тому +5

    Cartilage in my Right Knee is beat from military life, so this video was very helpful to find options on what I can do to ease patella femoral loading workouts and not lose leg gains.

  • @iceqube77
    @iceqube77 Рік тому +11

    Your ranking videos in my opinion, are among your best. Really helps me prioritize my workout exercises. So
    ...thanks!

  • @pedrov.25
    @pedrov.25 Рік тому +2

    I was waiting for this video for a long time, thanks Jeff your the best

  • @MaviNK
    @MaviNK 8 місяців тому +2

    This is by far the best series from you. Others I could not stand for more than couple of minutes.

  • @Musicownz1997
    @Musicownz1997 Рік тому +22

    Love these Best to Worst videos. The shoulders one was a game changer for me

  • @schelainfranklin6926
    @schelainfranklin6926 Рік тому +3

    Thank you Jeff. I always do the front squats as it's one of my all time favorite leg exercises.

  • @DDPhysical
    @DDPhysical 2 місяці тому +1

    Your videos are absolutely excellent. Esp. Ranking Exercises. Keep up this incredible work. Dan

  • @ronyut1984
    @ronyut1984 10 місяців тому +88

    TABLE OF CONTENTS
    ==================
    BAD ❌
    =======
    Sissy squats (1:07)
    Smith machine squats (1:53)
    Better ⭐
    ========
    Drop squats(2:43)
    Goblet squats (3:30)
    Heavy resistance bike (4:36)
    Leg extensions (4:55)
    Better still⭐⭐
    ==============
    Leg Press (6:41)
    Dumbbell step ups (8:02)
    Sled push/pull (8:50)
    Dumbbell Spanish squats / TKE split squat (10:17)
    Almost best⭐⭐⭐
    ===================
    Hack squat (11:22)
    Dumbbell Bulgarian split squat (13:19)
    High bar back squats (14:11)
    Dumbbell/barbell reverse lunge (14:55)
    Best⭐⭐⭐⭐
    ===================
    Front squat (15:51)
    Belt squat (16:39)

  • @k.bkeller2471
    @k.bkeller2471 Рік тому +9

    I was SO HYPED when this video dropped. Thank you as always Jeff, God Bless you 🙏!

  • @Travis.M
    @Travis.M 10 місяців тому +8

    Love this "worst to best" series! Would love to see one one traps!

  • @phil-ammike
    @phil-ammike Рік тому +1

    Very helpful and informative.

  • @XaviAquino
    @XaviAquino Рік тому

    Finally! The video I've been waiting for so Long! Thank you, Jeff!

  • @lsisak7651
    @lsisak7651 Рік тому +8

    As always Jeff takes the mystery out of seeing those gains. Love this man. He got me from fat to fit to the point where people accuse me of being on steroids, but I'm all natural. I just follow Jeff's advise.

  • @RyanZirnheld11
    @RyanZirnheld11 Рік тому +222

    Bulgarian split squat is perfect if you’re like me and have always struggled with back issues from regular squatting. It’s my main leg workout nowadays and has been a life saver.
    It may feel awkward at first but after a few weeks of practice it’s easy

    • @naazahs9045
      @naazahs9045 Рік тому +8

      For me it's perfect too. Allows me to overload and isolate my lower body unilaterally without frying up my CNS. It's a game changer for quad building.

    • @dan_4531
      @dan_4531 Рік тому +47

      Bulgarians are the hardest exercise i have ever done aside from pullups. The fatigue i get from each set is insane. I literally fall to the ground on my final set and am in agony. Dont know why theyre so extreme but hey theyve been building my legs quite well.

    • @RyanZirnheld11
      @RyanZirnheld11 Рік тому +13

      @@dan_4531 they’re awesome! That’s a plus that you can go to complete failure every time without a spotter

    • @dan_4531
      @dan_4531 Рік тому +1

      @@RyanZirnheld11 they sure are awesome. And really? I didnt even know you can use a spotter on these haha. I usually use 30 poumd dumbells or 35 pounds for 6 to 7 reps. Its insane though how hard they are. Cheers to bigger legs

    • @alecm4295
      @alecm4295 Рік тому

      I really with I coyld do them but I have a bad big toe which makes them painful

  • @xvsj5833
    @xvsj5833 Рік тому +1

    Thxs “JC” love your channel and content 👍💪🏽

  • @stevenlewis9317
    @stevenlewis9317 7 місяців тому +2

    Thanks I’m 62 and I needed help with my legs. Thanks for giving me the information on doing the upper body and legs.

  • @instrong
    @instrong Рік тому +6

    Thank you for these tips man! I will use it my workouts. By the way thanks to you I found my passion in making workout videos

  • @Littlebpaulmuller-Owner
    @Littlebpaulmuller-Owner Рік тому +322

    Worst
    1:07 Sissy Squats
    1:49 Smith Machine Squats
    Better
    2:42 DB Drop Squats
    3:25 Goblet Squats
    4:07 Heavy Resistance Bike
    5:03 Leg Extensions
    Better Still
    6:42 Leg Press
    8:02 DB Step Ups
    8:50 Sled Push/Pull
    10:03 DB Spanish Squats, TKE Split Squats
    Almost Best
    11:23 H__ck Squats
    13:23 DB Bulgarian Split Squats
    14:10 High Bar Back Squats
    14:54 DB/BB Reverse Lunge
    Best
    15:53 Front Squats
    16:38 Belt Squats

  • @Mighty_Jarhead
    @Mighty_Jarhead 4 місяці тому

    An amazingly informative video. You have my subscription! 👌

  • @Bloopbliepbloop
    @Bloopbliepbloop Рік тому

    Perfect Jeff, thank you!

  • @mc603
    @mc603 Рік тому +9

    Great video. Since I'm a beginner, I will start with the db drop squat. I had been doing leg extensions but after watching this video realized that exercise probably was the culprit for my knee pain. Thanks.

    • @Qtlika
      @Qtlika Рік тому +1

      jeff really just talking none of what hes saying even makes sense lmao

  • @ididyermom3273
    @ididyermom3273 11 місяців тому +7

    My absolute favorite are dumbbell lunges because the load held in both hands is focused on one leg. Hold 2 50's and you are putting 100lbs on that quad. The dumbbell position puts the weight directly over the quad instead of on your shoulders and glutes.
    I've gotten far better results with them than barbell squats and or leg extensions ever did. Also, really an amazing cardio pulmonary workout to get your heart pumping and thumping!

  • @andrejones6413
    @andrejones6413 Рік тому

    Awesome video again thanks Jeff keep them coming

  • @mario2216
    @mario2216 Рік тому +1

    Your abb videos have helped me out a lot I started seeing results in the 2nd week keep it up with the goood videos

  • @abdussalam2714
    @abdussalam2714 Рік тому +56

    I switched to Bulgarian split squats from barbell after a lower back injury from deadlift. It’s helped me so much to keep up the progress. Quads burns like crazy and I feel like I’m about to throw up by the end. What I also love is when I go heavier my lower back muscles also get targeted reducing my lower back pain

    • @richbrake9910
      @richbrake9910 8 місяців тому +1

      Unless you are or want to be a powerlifter, I would not bother with deadlifts and traditional squats with the bar across the shoulders. It's not worth the risk of spinal injuries, especially when there are so many exercises that are just as good, if not, better.

    • @caza728
      @caza728 6 місяців тому

      @@richbrake9910Do you mean avoiding front squats as well?

  • @Jedz999
    @Jedz999 Рік тому +10

    I find that the pistol squats work really well to increase quad strength. You can use a Smith machine and set the bar low to assist you at the beginning if you can't go all the way down without falling back (which means a lack of ankle and hip flexibility). Just make sure to keep 1 or 2 fingers on top of the bar instead of holding it with a full grip (that would give too much assistance). You can also put a plate under your heel to raise it in case your ankle lacks dorsiflexion.

  • @ct5274
    @ct5274 2 місяці тому

    Thank you for this Jeff💪

  • @abehasinski2622
    @abehasinski2622 6 місяців тому

    love your videos! super informative and i like how more often than not, you put safety FIRST (also have shoulder and knee problems)! When will you do upper back and calf best to worst? Hope those are coming and can't wait to see em, THANKS JEFF AND ATHLEAN-X TEAM! :D

  • @worldofnorman
    @worldofnorman Рік тому +7

    After watching a few of your videos Jeff I must say I love them and despite not agreeing with everything (but still 95%) you say its understandable your main focus is on health and being 35 myself (and going to the gym since I was 17) I can surley use your advice when I get into my 40s because I dont plan quitting the gym but I understand our bodies change as we get older.

  • @krahnic4000
    @krahnic4000 Рік тому +4

    Sir! The educational content of your videos is priceless! Thank you for making your viewers smarter and sharper!

  • @DJ_Talks
    @DJ_Talks Рік тому

    I love this video good effort man👏👏👏👏

  • @twobraincells4364
    @twobraincells4364 Рік тому

    I always love your segments. You rock.

  • @vden02
    @vden02 Рік тому +59

    I hired a pro BB trainer and since I've been watching your vids I see how many exercises she had me doing that were contributing to the pain in my shoulder and low back. I've redone my training because of you, thank you Jeff!

    • @VenzoGames
      @VenzoGames Рік тому +30

      It's pretty frustrating how most personal trainers give you shitty exercises actually

    • @ightimmaheadout290
      @ightimmaheadout290 Рік тому +6

      Why would you hire a woman for lifting?

    • @ge7581
      @ge7581 8 місяців тому

      Lmao you hired a professional bodybuilder yet you chose to listen to one of the worst fitness youtubers. If you have lower back pain or shoulder pain from doing an exercise a pro bb told you to do you`re either not doing the exercise correctly,, not warming up correctly, or you have serious issues and should see a doctor asap.

    • @daliab8493
      @daliab8493 4 місяці тому +1

      @@ightimmaheadout290😮 what??

  • @squadron69
    @squadron69 Рік тому +6

    Great teaching vid and learning is what UA-cam is all about. This is the reason why you have over 13mil subscribers. Keep it going my man….

  • @hipo4eyes1
    @hipo4eyes1 7 місяців тому

    Jeff always dropping gold!

  • @Cantseeinthedarkshade
    @Cantseeinthedarkshade Рік тому +1

    I always learn information that is useful to training from Athlean X!!!

  • @Rust-Pizza
    @Rust-Pizza Рік тому +3

    What a Coincidence..
    I was messing up my head this whole day about best quad exercises..and this Guy dropped this .. Wow 😃

  • @hannibalthecannibal9493
    @hannibalthecannibal9493 11 місяців тому +66

    WORST
    1. Sissy Squat - 1:06
    2. Smith Machine Squats - 1:45
    BETTER
    3. Drop Squats - 2:43
    4. Goblet Squats - 3:27
    5. Heavy Resistance Bike (Hill Riding) - 4:17
    6. Leg Extensions - 4:57
    BETTER STILL
    7. Leg Press (Feet Low) - 6:43
    8. DB Step Ups - 8:02
    9. Sled Push / Pull - 8:50
    10. DB Spanish Squats / TKE Split Squats - 10:17
    ALMOST BEST
    11. Hack Squats - 11:20
    12. Bulgarian Split Squats - 13:23
    13. High Bar Back Squats - 14:09
    14. DB / BB Reverse Lunge - 14:53
    BEST
    15. Front Squats - 15:52
    16. Belt Squats - 16:38

  • @Mar-dm5hq
    @Mar-dm5hq 2 місяці тому

    Thank you I get pain in the patella after using the leg extension so glad you are showing a variation for those with knee pain

  • @roywells5790
    @roywells5790 5 місяців тому

    Nice job Jeff thanks.

  • @radikalnormal3913
    @radikalnormal3913 Рік тому +9

    I was sure that face-pulls gonna be no1

    • @Borz862
      @Borz862 3 дні тому

      😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

  • @seanmartyn3956
    @seanmartyn3956 Рік тому +8

    I’ve never seen those belt squats in my life tbh. I wish my gym had a machine like that

    • @jetsdude8
      @jetsdude8 6 місяців тому

      Mine has one and no matter what I do I feel it most in my glutes. It kind of pulls u forward at all times and I can't figure out how to get it more in quads

  • @asssis8565
    @asssis8565 6 місяців тому

    Thanks a lot, Jeff. I love your videos. One question: Would you say that the dumbbell version of the front squat is as good as the barbell version that you showed in the video?

  • @buckshot4569
    @buckshot4569 5 місяців тому

    Excellent info Thankyou 👍🥇🏆

  • @gratefulandhumble3693
    @gratefulandhumble3693 Рік тому +5

    I love your channel!!! Just came across it about a month now and I’ve been binge watching your content! Superb

  • @glennwhitehead1178
    @glennwhitehead1178 Рік тому +9

    My favorite for a massive quad pump is a heel elevated goblet squat with a narrow stance (toes forward) - let the knees travel way past the toes and don’t fully lock out at the top 👍🏼
    *try super setting this with walking lunges 🔥 *

    • @zonto22
      @zonto22 Рік тому +1

      I have started doing these recently and definitely agree. Works my quads way more with a 12# DB than when I do goblet squats with 50# DB, plus at a greater range of motion.

  • @gabrielaiveth6888
    @gabrielaiveth6888 Рік тому

    One of the most expected videos!!!!!. 🥰

  • @rattmausch
    @rattmausch Рік тому +14

    Great points about the leg extension. I remember a video you did in about 2009 about the leg extension in your basement. I stopped doing them for years but one day I hopped on it just for the hek of it and found that it actually is a good exercise if done right. The problem with most people on the leg extension is they max it out and go too hard on it. That's the problem. I set it at like 30/40lbs and do slow and controlled; just to get a good contraction. the weight isn't the goal on the LE machine, it's the contraction. The LE is just a warm up and should not be used as a primary training source IMO.

    • @jaden7854
      @jaden7854 Рік тому

      U've got no brain m8

    • @ggmedina1188
      @ggmedina1188 Рік тому

      Same here. Dropped them because of Jeff back then. I do them the exact same way, slow contractions, for warm up & not too much weight.

    • @freetrollings142
      @freetrollings142 Рік тому

      @@jaden7854 Keep saying that to yourself kid

    • @annaoliver8870
      @annaoliver8870 Рік тому

      Yeah, however i'd like to share my experience. I got in a bike accident and developt patellar tendinophaty and surely, the LE was one of the biggest pain trigger. Did some rehab and got back to those LE. I started with 5kg with both legs and I'm gradually increasing the load. today i can get 25kg sigle leg and pain free. Took a while but it really helped me build the streng again! Tho i dont plan to increase a lot more for now, i weigh 50kg.

  • @Nick87899
    @Nick87899 Рік тому

    Awesome as usual

  • @randyhogan6024
    @randyhogan6024 Рік тому +5

    At the age of 38, after 14 years of powerlifting, I blew the l-4 l-5, l-5 s-1 discs in my back doing front squats to build my quads. Only had 205 on the bar. Prior to doing this I use to be able to do stiff leg dead lifts standing on a bench to get a full stretch with 275 on the bar. I was wearing a powerlifting belt doing the front squats and blew the discs below the belt. Maybe the belt contributed to it, I don't know. That ended squats for me. At age 62 still working out.

    • @richbrake9910
      @richbrake9910 7 місяців тому

      I blew the L4/L5 disc, and my training partner blew the L5/S1 disc doing back squats, which led to surgery. Never again. Squats are a horribly dangerous movement, and the sad thing is there are exercises that work the quads better, so it's a completely unnecessary risk, unless one is dead set (no pun intended) on competitive powerlifting.

  • @AlqiezAlqiez
    @AlqiezAlqiez Рік тому +28

    Please do a Hiit jump rope workout next, along with how to properly perform HIIT. Research has it that many do not know what it truly means(form/execution). I’d be forever grateful if you honored this request. A successful year to you, Jeff !🎉🎉

    • @navers87
      @navers87 Рік тому +2

      Yes! Massive jump rope person here, and I know Jeff always rates jump rope as part of his conditioning. I do a HIIT workout all the time, but I am curious to see how Jeff does it, whether he incorporates bodyweight workouts or just does it only with the rope. I requested for the same thing in a previous video, so I hope he sees this too!

    • @optimisticoutreach1236
      @optimisticoutreach1236 Рік тому +3

      Speed up...slow down. Repeat.

    • @Sirlants_alot
      @Sirlants_alot Рік тому +2

      Search burst training on the channel. He has lots of interval stuff.

    • @mehmetbayrak6126
      @mehmetbayrak6126 Рік тому

      Yess

  • @alohakamanawanaleiu4996
    @alohakamanawanaleiu4996 Рік тому

    You are awesome! Thank you!

  • @user-wn8xh1po3i
    @user-wn8xh1po3i Місяць тому

    I am 75. I don’t know anyone unselfishly explaining how to do the exercises correctly. Thank you for that. I am 106 lbs and so strong and looks good because of your great exercises. I don’t need a trainer. You are the trainer.

  • @mikehinson5935
    @mikehinson5935 Рік тому +10

    Great list Jeff. I really wish my local gym had a belt squat so I could load my quads without putting weight on my back.

  • @RobertMiller-sh7gb
    @RobertMiller-sh7gb 9 місяців тому

    Great video and very helpful. Where would you rate various forms of squats using a trap bar?

  • @gabrielb426
    @gabrielb426 3 місяці тому

    Thank you for all the helpful content Athlean X has cranked out for years and just becomes more relevant. Quick question from the "able-limited" 😂: Is the belt squat ok for people with a blown L5?

  • @jasonrolison6997
    @jasonrolison6997 Рік тому +22

    It is amazing how much Jesse has improved. I have been watching your channel for years and his progress is impressive. I like your content. Keep it up!

  • @supersquats
    @supersquats Рік тому +3

    One of the best ways ive found to utilise some of these exercises where you are limited due to certain issues such as the goblet squat is to use them as part of a superset where you pre fatigue your legs with something that keeps the limiting muscles fresh. personally i think goblet squats on their own suck but if you do them after a hard set of leg presses you get more leg stimulus without the grip and upper back giving out first. Belt squats are an amazing exercise however i believe they are best done in higher rep ranges. One thing i often notice in gyms when people use the belt squat is they attach the belt too far out on the lever, this makes the leverage more favourable and ramps up the weight you can use significantly. Imo its best to attach the belt as close in to the machine as possible. You can actually preform a mechanical drop set of belt squats by attaching the belt as close in as possible and going to failure then racking it removing the clip from the machine and selecting a position further up the lever.

    • @iang8169
      @iang8169 Рік тому

      Good idea , I was using my gyms trx ,hooked up to a spud belt squat belt up over my chest and holding 2 dumbbells in my hands and it was a perfect substitute for a pendulum squat ,except for the fact that my arms give out before my quads . so going to try super setting it with leg press and see if I can get the quads to give out before my arms

  • @giuseppeburini8638
    @giuseppeburini8638 Рік тому

    Great breakdown of options, thank you! The pendulum squat is number one and second, the hack squat in my opinion...

  • @axel-wn3od
    @axel-wn3od 6 днів тому

    very interesting thankyou

  • @joshg9228
    @joshg9228 Рік тому +3

    So glad my gym got a belt squat! I know it's deceiving how much weight I can do versus a back squat but the work is showing on my quads for sure

    • @alaaentabi7879
      @alaaentabi7879 Рік тому

      lol I dont get it, i can do almost the same with both movmvnets
      back squat (4 plates +bar for 5reps) and belt squat (4 plates for 15reps)

  • @danielleal1037
    @danielleal1037 Рік тому +3

    Hatfield squats seem very similar to belt squats in my opinion. I’ve been doing the former for a few months and find it incredible.

  • @vivekranadive2388
    @vivekranadive2388 11 днів тому

    Great video ❤❤

  • @Anil-tc2oj
    @Anil-tc2oj 11 місяців тому

    Amazing info, thanks 🙏

    • @trey8005
      @trey8005 11 місяців тому +1

      no sissy squats are extremely useful if you know how to use them properly in a mechanical dropset

  • @NekoEspada
    @NekoEspada Рік тому +7

    Hack squat, leg extension and leg press technique as show in this video are the best for quad specific development in my experience. Actually in high school I only did leg press and I had overdeveloped quads and was given the nickname Quadzilla.

    • @TheFaro2011
      @TheFaro2011 10 місяців тому +1

      Leg extension gives me beautiful quads. I'm a woman and would just add the machine....just

  • @Ruudwardt
    @Ruudwardt Рік тому +6

    Thanks! I am wrecking my lower back with front squat without much going on in my glutes and quads. From video footage back looks straight, but something is defo wrong there.
    I'm gonna do the reverse lunges and Bulgarian splitsquats instead.

    • @azecared626
      @azecared626 Рік тому +1

      Thank you for that warning about front squats, I have some worries about the DB Spanish squats, he seems more focused stretching the band that lifting the weights

  • @nathantavua
    @nathantavua Рік тому +1

    Great video thanks! It was really helpful😆😃

  • @spiritofalaska
    @spiritofalaska Рік тому

    I´ve waited for this one for so long

  • @eridanoooouuuuus
    @eridanoooouuuuus Рік тому +26

    I think a red X for the sissy squat might be harsh. Seems like a lot of people with well trained knees can take a couple sets as a finisher exercise for example. I've been doing a finisher superset of slick floor bridge curls and sissy squats that hits good.

    • @timryan193
      @timryan193 Рік тому +1

      I agree. I actually rate the sissy squat for targeting the 'tear drop' of the quad. Personally works great for me.

    • @zerorepsinreserve
      @zerorepsinreserve Рік тому +1

      Yep

    • @krnrrr
      @krnrrr Рік тому +2

      @@timryan193 iirc tom platz also did

    • @robertdipietro991
      @robertdipietro991 Рік тому

      @@krnrrr ur right, he did, and they are a good exercise. Not only as a strengthener but also for quad hypertrophy. It is basically the same movement as a leg extension except you can get more knee flexion.

    • @eduardo.calistenia
      @eduardo.calistenia Рік тому

      I love to do them as well, and not also that but my legs are growing pretty fast from it combined with single-leg exercises like the bulgarian split squat. I've been training at home for the past 3 years with minimal equipment (mostly resistance bands, gymnastic rings and weight vest) and my quads so far have been the muscle that developed the most up until now (from 53-54cm in each leg to almost 62cm in each right now and I'm not even bulking, will start soon).

  • @E408David
    @E408David Рік тому +5

    Good to know belt squat is ranked high. I love using that machine but was always weary at how effective it is. Will definitely go back to using it. Thanks for info!

    • @chavdar.dobrev
      @chavdar.dobrev Рік тому +8

      I’ve never seen this machine in my life lol. I’ve been to many good gyms though. I guess it’s not popular in Europe?

    • @gjaram
      @gjaram Рік тому

      Yes my gym that moved to a new location just after the pandemic kept some of the existing leg machines but then added this new weird one. It took like 5-10 minutes trying to figure it out, and I never bothered with it. After seeing Jeff's BEST squat exercise...there it was....the machine used in the BELT SQUAT. Time to start using it :)

    • @robgriffin4801
      @robgriffin4801 Рік тому +2

      @@chavdar.dobrev Never seen it in person in the US either across dozens of gyms. Would love to use it. I could see making one on a platform

  • @DeanHenry-hm9bd
    @DeanHenry-hm9bd Рік тому +1

    Great video Jeff, could you do a video of the belt squat with resistance bands?

  • @irshad143ify
    @irshad143ify Рік тому

    thanks jeff… i needed this… been doing one of the worst one…ty coach

  • @ferrm1992
    @ferrm1992 Рік тому +25

    You know what I like your channel, Jeff? And why I’ve been following you since 2015? Because you not only tell us why an exercise is not convenient, but you even go and tell us “Hey don’t worry, you can do this instead and still take care of that need”.

  • @salvatore5415
    @salvatore5415 4 місяці тому +4

    Sissy squats are very good man...

  • @letsgets77
    @letsgets77 Рік тому +1

    Jeff, you're a mf fitness icon in my mind!! Right up there with Sly, Arnold, Bruce Lee, Michael Jai, and all my favorite childhood wrestling heroes. Thank you so much for the knowledge. A journey that started for me with a Christmas present of weights and a library book on fitness. I've come a long way, and you've been a strong reliable resource. Thank you sir.

  • @k14567896
    @k14567896 Рік тому

    Great content Jeff I need a video for the hamstrings

  • @carpecursus
    @carpecursus Рік тому +3

    I made a belt squat with a landmine at knee height, on a couple of squat stands. Can also be done in a rack. Add a spud belt a carabiner and a soft loop tie down strap and you're good to go!!! I actually don't HATE leg day, now.

  • @SandyRegion
    @SandyRegion Рік тому

    Thanks for this.

  • @UltimateTrackMom
    @UltimateTrackMom Рік тому

    You are the BEST!! Thank you

  • @clamum9648
    @clamum9648 Рік тому +3

    I know the Smith machine gets crapped on a lot, but I don't really have a problem with them, generally.
    When I started lifting in early 2020, my trainer had me do Smith exercises (squat, press) to learn them. Yeah he could've just taught me barbell first, but I think teaching someone new to lifting on a Smith does make some sense. I did Smith squats for that first whole year, and I gained 35 lbs total (~12 lbs muscle) by the end of the first year. My legs certainly grew and were one of the parts that I was most happy with.
    While I always do barbell movements now, I think Smith has some place and can certainly be effective. I still use it if the racks are taken though I'd def prefer barbell haha.

    • @MorelloZzT7
      @MorelloZzT7 Рік тому

      I agree partially. I don't think a beginner should use a Smith machine because form will be all over the place. Barbell I would be still be a little hesitant to use unless you fix the kinetic chain above and below your quads.

  • @StephanAndreMusic
    @StephanAndreMusic Рік тому +6

    Smith squats got a red X? *cries in dr mike*

  • @twotonemalone112
    @twotonemalone112 6 місяців тому

    Excellent!! Thanks

  • @cclayton1917
    @cclayton1917 Рік тому

    great vid. thanks

  • @MrKnadams
    @MrKnadams Рік тому +8

    Absolutely agree on the smiths machine squat being the worst. I injured my back many years ago on one. You’re form can be all over the place using them. 🙌

    • @HasanEissa
      @HasanEissa Рік тому +15

      you injured your back not because of the smith machine, it couldv'e been a variety of factors like dehydration, form, too much load, etc. The smith machine is fine. It's much safer than a regular squat due to the added stability which allows us to take the target muscle to failure without having to worry about balance and stability.

    • @germanrud9904
      @germanrud9904 Рік тому +1

      ​@@HasanEissa stability training prevents injury, smith machine is bad, and you're small and weak

    • @moazhassan7650
      @moazhassan7650 9 місяців тому

      ​@@germanrud9904true

    • @matthewdice8567
      @matthewdice8567 7 місяців тому

      @@HasanEissa balance and stability prevents you from doing to much ego lifting

  • @GloOMrr
    @GloOMrr Рік тому +7

    Please do one for hamstrings as well Jeff, this was really helpful.

    • @georgegeorge2081
      @georgegeorge2081 Рік тому

      Face Jef antrenament și pe tru călcâi mă 😂😂😂

    • @abbhee
      @abbhee Рік тому

      @@GloOMrr the title says hamstrings: ua-cam.com/video/1jp2uhfO8M0/v-deo.html

    • @abbhee
      @abbhee Рік тому

      Along with glutes that is. It includes the RDLs, so definitely hamstrings and glutes both.

  • @constantinvasiliev2065
    @constantinvasiliev2065 Рік тому

    Thank you!

  • @tramperscott
    @tramperscott Рік тому

    Welcome brother. Subbed your channel. I honestly prefer the company of my elders but I've lived long enough to see that age doesn't always dictate how the person will be. Be well

  • @87alock
    @87alock Рік тому +5

    DB Bulgarian Split squat and DB reverse lunges are easily my favorite leg exercises, been doing them for years and they've worked wonders for my legs. Glad they're high up there on the list.

    • @AbhisekC
      @AbhisekC Рік тому +2

      DB Bulgarian Split squat is so damn tough bro.

    • @wolfheart5408
      @wolfheart5408 Рік тому +1

      Bulgarian split squat is hella painful

  • @toneman8478
    @toneman8478 Рік тому +3

    I'll stick with my total gym at this point. I've done free weights for 30 years.. taking a bike out and pedaling up and down hills have built my legs way more than any gym exercise

  • @Mi5Agent007
    @Mi5Agent007 7 місяців тому +1

    Great Article as usual Jeff thanks. I suppose you could do the Zercher squat variation over Front squat? Also if we don't have access to a belt squat machine, we could use a dip-belt and plates stood over two box stands so the plates can drop between the boxes, while the height of the boxes enable the prevention of the plates hanging off your belt striking the floor when in the eccentric phase?

  • @jesse2200
    @jesse2200 Рік тому

    Those 2 green stars at the end were perfect stars. Fantastic.

  • @mattystewart8
    @mattystewart8 Рік тому +3

    The leg extension explanation made me realise i was so right not quite using the leg extension with my patellar tendonitis!!! The very instant i stopped using it the pain started to go away!!