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Bench Squat (Dumbbell)

Bench Squat demonstration

Watch the demo so setup and tempo are clear before you follow the step-by-step cues.

Performing the: A Step-by-Step Tutorial Bench Squat

Work through the cues in order so setup, bracing, and reps stay consistent before you add load.

  • Slowly lower your body towards the bench by bending your knees and pushing your hips back, as if you were about to sit down.
  • When your buttocks touch the bench, pause for a moment, ensuring that your knees are in line with your feet and not extending past your toes.
  • Push through your heels to stand back up straight, keeping your core engaged and your back straight throughout the movement.
  • Repeat this process for your desired number of repetitions, maintaining a steady and controlled pace.

Tips for Performing Bench Squat

Form reminders that keep range of motion and control in check once the basic pattern feels stable.

  • **Avoiding Common Mistakes**: One common mistake is not going deep enough into the squat. Aim to lower your body until your thighs are parallel with the floor. Another mistake is letting your knees move inward as you squat. This can lead to injury. Instead, make sure your knees are aligned with your feet throughout the movement.
  • **Use the Bench Properly**: The bench is there to help you maintain form and depth. It’s not there to take a break mid-rep. Touch your glutes to the bench lightly and then push up. Don't rest on the bench.
  • **Engage Your Core**: Keep your core engaged throughout the exercise. This will help to maintain balance

Can beginners do the Bench Squat?

A short framing note on whether this pattern suits newer lifters before you load it heavily.

Yes, beginners can certainly do the Bench Squat exercise. This exercise is actually an excellent choice for beginners as it helps to build strength and stability in the lower body, particularly the legs and glutes. The bench provides a guide for form and depth, ensuring that the squats are performed correctly and safely. However, it's important for beginners to start with a light weight or even just their body weight, and gradually increase as their strength improves. It's also recommended to have a trainer or experienced individual supervise to ensure proper form.

What are common variations of the Bench Squat?

Compare these progressions when the main pattern is solid or you need a different stimulus with similar equipment.

  • The Front Squat is a variation that involves holding the barbell in front of your chest, rather than on your back, as you perform the squat on a bench.
  • The Goblet Squat is a variation where you hold a kettlebell or dumbbell at your chest while you perform the squat on a bench.
  • The Bulgarian Split Squat is a variation where one foot is propped up on the bench behind you, challenging your balance as you squat.
  • The Zercher Squat is a variation where the barbell is held in the crook of your elbows, close to your chest, as you squat on a bench.