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.
Required Equipment


Bodyweight Bulgarian Elevated-Heel Split-Squat Muscles Worked
Primary
Glutes (gluteus maximus); Quads (quadriceps femoris)
Secondary
Hamstrings; Obliques
Bodyweight Bulgarian Elevated-Heel Split-Squat Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Bodyweight Bulgarian Elevated-Heel Split-Squat
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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