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Dumbbell Supported Bulgarian Split-Squat

Master balance & strength! Dumbbell Bulgarian Split-Squats target quads & glutes effectively. Ready to challenge yourself?

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

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Required Equipment

Dumbbells
Dumbbells
Exercise Bench
Exercise Bench

Dumbbell Supported Bulgarian Split-Squat Muscles Worked

Primary

Quads (quadriceps femoris); Glutes (gluteus maximus)

Secondary

Hamstrings; Deep Core (transverse abdominis)

How to do the Dumbbell Supported Bulgarian Split-Squat

  • A pair of dumbbells (choose a weight that is appropriate for your fitness level)

Starting Position:

  1. Begin by placing one bench behind you and keeping a second bench to your side for support.

  2. Stand upright with a dumbbell in each hand, arms resting at your sides.

  3. Step back with your right foot and place the top of your foot on the first bench behind you. Your left foot should be planted firmly on the ground in front of you, aligned with your left knee.

Movement:

  1. Engage your core and keep your chest upright. This is your starting position.

  2. Slowly lower your body by bending your left knee, keeping your left foot flat on the ground. Aim to lower your hips until your left thigh is parallel to the floor or as close to it as you can comfortably go.

  3. Make sure your left knee does not extend past your toes to avoid strain.

  4. Use the support bench to steady yourself if needed, placing one hand on the bench for balance.

  5. Press through your left heel to push yourself back up to the starting position, straightening your left leg while bringing your right knee back to the starting position.

  6. Repeat for the recommended number of repetitions (usually 8-12) on this side before switching to the other leg.

Tips:

  • Keep your movements controlled and steady.

  • Maintain proper alignment to prevent injury; avoid leaning forward excessively.

  • Start with lighter weights and increase as you become comfortable with the movement.

  • Incorporate rest between sets for recovery.

Dumbbell Supported Bulgarian Split-Squat FAQs

What muscles does the Dumbbell Supported Bulgarian Split-Squat work?

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

What equipment do you need for the Dumbbell Supported Bulgarian Split-Squat?

Dumbbells or exercise bench.

Is the Dumbbell Supported Bulgarian 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 Dumbbell Supported Bulgarian Split-Squat go on?

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

What are some Dumbbell Supported Bulgarian Split-Squat variations and alternatives?

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

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