Appears in642 Workouts*

Hamstring Squat Curl

Squat + hamstring curl = 🔥 tone! Strengthen legs, glutes, & core with this combo move. Get ready to feel the burn!

The Hamstring Squat Curl is a compound exercise that mainly works the glutes & hips and hamstrings, with help from the quads and core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Ms. Grey
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Hamstring Squat Curl Muscles Worked

Primary

Glutes (gluteus maximus); Hamstrings

Secondary

Quads (quadriceps femoris); Abdominals (rectus abdominis)

How to do the Hamstring Squat Curl

  1. Starting Position:

    • Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart.

    • Keep your arms crossed over your chest or in front of you for balance.

  2. Squat Down:

    • Push your hips back as if sitting in a chair.

    • Bend your knees and lower your body until your thighs are parallel to the ground. Ensure your knees do not go past your toes.

    • Keep your chest lifted and back straight.

  3. Hamstring Curl:

    • While in the squat position, lift your right heel towards your glutes, curling it up.

    • Keep your thighs close together as you raise your leg.

    • Hold for a brief moment at the top of the curl.

  4. Return to Start:

    • Lower your foot back down.

    • Push through your heels to return to the standing position, engaging your glutes as you rise.

  5. Repeat:

    • Perform the curl again with your left leg.

    • Alternate between legs for the desired number of repetitions, typically 10-15 per leg.

  6. Breathing:

    • Inhale as you squat down and exhale as you stand back up.

Tips:

  • Focus on maintaining your balance throughout the movement.

  • Keep your core engaged to support your back and improve stability.

  • Ensure proper form by looking forward and not rounding your back during the squat.

Hamstring Squat Curl FAQs

What muscles does the Hamstring Squat Curl work?

The Hamstring Squat Curl mainly works the glutes & hips and hamstrings, with help from the quads and core. The main muscles are the gluteus maximus and hamstrings.

What equipment do you need for the Hamstring Squat Curl?

None. The Hamstring Squat Curl is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

Is the Hamstring Squat Curl 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 Hamstring Squat Curl go on?

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

What are some Hamstring Squat Curl variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Alternating Hamstring Sky Punch Curl, Alternating Arm & Hamstring Lift, Alternating Hamstring Curl Jack and Alternating Overhead Hamstring Clap Curl.

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