Exercise / 299Animation available
Pause Squat demonstration

Illustration by RepDB

Strength / Barbell

Pause Squat

A barbell squat variation with a deliberate pause at the bottom, eliminating the stretch reflex to build strength from a dead stop.

Equipment

Barbell

Experience

intermediate

Movement

compound

Primary musclesSecondary muscles

Lower Back · Hamstrings · Glute Medius

Instructions

  1. 01

    Unrack a barbell and rest it across your upper back.

  2. 02

    Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.

  3. 03

    Squat down until your thighs are parallel to the floor.

  4. 04

    Hold the bottom position for 2-3 seconds.

  5. 05

    Drive through your heels to stand back up.

  6. 06

    Repeat for the desired number of reps.

Choose a load and range you can control. These instructions are general guidance, not a substitute for individual coaching.