Barbell Elevated Heel Squat Exercise Guide

Barbell Elevated Heel Squat gif

Exercise Profile

Target
Quadriceps
Equipment
Barbell
Body Part
Thighs
Primary Muscle
Quadriceps
Secondary Muscles
Soleus, Gluteus Maximus
Intensity
medium
Category
strength
Skill Level
intermediate
Estimated Calories
5
Alternate Names
Heel Elevated Squat

Visualised Target Muscle Groups

Front

Body muscles front

Back

Body muscles back

How to: Barbell Elevated Heel Squat

  1. Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart and the barbell resting on your upper back.
  2. Position a wedge or weight plates under your heels to elevate them slightly.
  3. Bend your knees and lower your body into a squat, keeping your chest up and back straight.
  4. Go as low as you can while maintaining form, then push through your heels to return to standing.

Common Mistakes

  • Letting the knees cave inward during the squat.
  • Leaning too far forward instead of keeping the chest up.
  • Using too much weight too soon without mastering the form.

Modifications

  • Perform without the barbell for a reduced load.
  • Use a lighter weight with fewer repetitions.

Tips

  • Keep your heels elevated to maximize quadriceps activation.
  • Ensure proper form by maintaining a straight back and keeping knees in line with toes.
  • Use a partial range of motion if you are new to this exercise.

Tags

squat
thighs
quads
strength
fitness
barbell