How to Do a Perfect Squat? Muscles Worked & Strong-Leg Tips

The squat is the king of lower-body exercises—building quads, glutes and core stability while torching calories. Whether you use dumbbells or just bodyweight, mastering squat form boosts athleticism and everyday strength.

How to Do a Squat?

  • Stance: Stand tall with feet shoulder-width apart, toes slightly turned out.
  • Grip: Hold dumbbells at your sides or racked at shoulders—keep wrists neutral.
  • Descent: Push hips back and bend knees as if sitting into a chair. Chest stays up, back neutral.
  • Depth: Lower until thighs are at least parallel (≈ 90° knee bend) or your mobility allows.
  • Drive: Press through heels, engage glutes and straighten legs to return to the start.
  • Pro tip: Keep core braced, knees tracking over mid-foot, and eyes forward for balance.

What Muscles Does It Work?

  • Quadriceps – primary knee extensors
  • Gluteus Maximus – hip drive & power
  • Hamstrings – hip stability & control
  • Core & Lower Back – trunk rigidity
  • Calves – ankle balance

Add squats to leg day or full-body workouts to build stronger legs, boost metabolism and improve sports performance.

BUILD YOUR LEG PROGRAM ➝
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