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Bulgarian Split Squat

A challenging single-leg squat variation that improves balance, unilateral strength, and hip mobility. Uses a chair or couch for rear foot elevation.

intermediate
Lower Body
3 min
Bulgarian Split Squat demonstration

Important: You Can't "Spot Reduce" Fat

This exercise strengthens Quadriceps, Glutes, but fat loss happens holistically across your entire body through consistent training and nutrition. You cannot target fat loss in specific areas. The key is full-body balanced training combined with a sustainable calorie deficit. This is how your body naturally reduces fat over time.

How to Do It

  1. 1Stand 2-3 feet in front of a chair or couch
  2. 2Place the top of your rear foot on the chair behind you
  3. 3Keep your front foot flat, chest up, and core engaged
  4. 4Lower down by bending your front knee
  5. 5Go until your rear knee nearly touches the ground
  6. 6Keep your front knee tracking over your toes
  7. 7Drive through your front heel to stand back up
  8. 8Complete all reps on one side before switching

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Front knee caving inward - push knee outward
Leaning too far forward - keep torso upright
Not lowering deep enough - aim for rear knee near floor
Letting front heel lift - keep weight in heel

Make It Easier

  • Reverse Lunge
  • Assisted Split Squat (hold wall)
  • Reduced range of motion

Make It Harder

  • Pause at bottom
  • Tempo split squat (slow descent)
  • Jumping split squat

Why This Matters for Busy Parents

As a busy parent, you need exercises that deliver results without requiring gym memberships, expensive equipment, or hours of your day. The bulgarian split squat is perfect because:

  • No equipment needed - do it at home, anytime, anywhere
  • Time-efficient - takes just 3 minutes per set
  • Builds real strength - targets quadriceps, glutes for functional fitness
  • Small space - requires minimal room

Remember: consistent, sustainable training is better than sporadic intense sessions. Focus on form, build gradually, and trust the process.

Quick Stats

Primary Muscles
Quadriceps
Glutes
Secondary Muscles
Hamstrings
Core
Hip Flexors
Equipment
Chair or Couch
Movement Pattern
Squat

Perfect For

small space
balance
unilateral

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