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Bodyweight Bulgarian Elevated-Heel Split-Squat

Master balance & build serious strength with the bodyweight Bulgarian split-squat. Elevate your heel to increase range!

The Bodyweight Bulgarian Elevated-Heel Split-Squat is a compound exercise that mainly works the glutes & hips and quads, with help from the hamstrings and core. You'll need: exercise bench or weight plates.

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Required Equipment

Exercise Bench
Exercise Bench
Weight Plates
Weight Plates

Bodyweight Bulgarian Elevated-Heel Split-Squat Muscles Worked

Primary

Glutes (gluteus maximus); Quads (quadriceps femoris)

Secondary

Hamstrings; Obliques

How to do the Bodyweight Bulgarian Elevated-Heel Split-Squat

  1. Setup:

    • Stand facing away from the bench, with your feet shoulder-width apart.

    • Place your rear foot on the bench or platform behind you. You can elevate your heel by placing a weight plate or wedge under your foot for added range of motion.

  2. Positioning:

    • Your front foot should be flat on the ground, ensuring that your knee lines up around your toes.

    • Keep your chest up, shoulders back, and core engaged throughout the movement.

    • Your arms can rest at your sides or in front of you for balance.

  3. Movement:

    • Begin the squat by bending your front knee and lowering your hips toward the ground.

    • Keep your back straight and avoid leaning forward excessively.

    • Lower yourself until your thigh is parallel to the ground, or as low as you can comfortably go, ensuring your front knee does not go past your toes.

  4. Return:

    • Push through your front heel to return to the starting position.

    • Straighten your front leg and return to an upright position, achieving full extension at the top.

  5. Repetitions:

    • Aim for 8-12 repetitions on one leg before switching to the other leg.

    • Perform 2-3 sets for each leg, resting for 30-60 seconds between sets.

Tips:

  • Start without added weight to master the form before progressing.

  • Ensure you maintain proper alignment and control throughout the exercise to minimize the risk of injury.

  • Focus on keeping your movements slow and controlled for maximum effectiveness.

Bodyweight Bulgarian Elevated-Heel Split-Squat FAQs

What muscles does the Bodyweight Bulgarian Elevated-Heel Split-Squat work?

The Bodyweight Bulgarian Elevated-Heel Split-Squat mainly works the glutes & hips and quads, with help from the hamstrings and core. The main muscles are the gluteus maximus and quadriceps femoris.

What equipment do you need for the Bodyweight Bulgarian Elevated-Heel Split-Squat?

Exercise bench or weight plates.

Is the Bodyweight Bulgarian Elevated-Heel Split-Squat a compound exercise?

Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.

What workout day should the Bodyweight Bulgarian Elevated-Heel Split-Squat go on?

It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Bodyweight Bulgarian Elevated-Heel Split-Squat variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Assisted Bulgarian Split-Squat, Barbell Elevated Front-Foot Split-Squat, Barbell Elevated-Heel Squat and Bodyweight Elevated Front-Foot Split-Squat.

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