Atlas
Jefferson Squat: starting position Jefferson Squat: end position

Squat · Quads

Jefferson Squat

A squat exercise that works the quads. Intermediate level, using barbell & rack.

IntermediateBarbell & rackGym

Muscles worked

PrimaryQuads
SecondaryCalves (gastrocnemius & soleus), Glutes, Hamstrings, Lower back, Traps & mid back

Quads, glutes, and adductors.

Setup and loading

Bar between your legs.

How to do the jefferson squat step by step

  1. Straddle the bar.
  2. Grab the bar with one hand in front and the other behind.
  3. Stand up by driving through your legs and lower with control.

Form cues

  • Back straight
  • Switch sides each set

Common mistakes

  • Rotating your torso
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Sets and reps for your goal

Hypertrophy

3-4 x 8-12 · rest 60-90 s

3-4 sets of 6-12 reps (up to 15-20 on isolation exercises) at 65-80% of your max. Rest 1 to 2 minutes.

Get close to failure (0-3 reps in reserve) and control the lowering for 2-3 seconds. Accumulate 10-20 sets per muscle per week.

Max Strength

4-5 x 3-6 · rest 2-3 min

3-6 sets of 1-6 reps at 80-90% of your max (1RM). Rest 2 to 5 minutes.

Leave 1-3 reps in reserve. If your technique breaks down, lower the weight: strength is built with good reps.

A guide for healthy adults. Adjust the load to your level and see a professional if you have an injury.

Check your form

Film yourself from the side or ask someone to watch, then tick what you get right.

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Sports it suits

Gear for this exercise

  • Olympic barbell and platesTo keep progressing on the big lifts with heavy loads.

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Variations and similar exercises

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