Dumbbell Front Squat: How-to, Tips & More

The Dumbbell Front Squat is a beginner compound exercise for your quads. You do it with dumbbells. It is a good fit when your goal is muscle growth.

Besides the quads, it also works your glutes, core and upper back, so it fits well in a session that trains those muscles together.

Muscles worked

Quads muscle

Quads

Primary

Glutes muscle

Glutes

Secondary

Core muscle

Core

Secondary

Upper back muscle

Upper back

Secondary

How to do the Dumbbell Front Squat

  1. Hold a dumbbell on each shoulder, elbows pointing forward.
  2. Squat down as deep as you can keep your chest up.
  3. Keep your elbows high.
  4. Drive up to stand.

Dumbbell Front Squat tips

  • Rest one end of each dumbbell on your shoulders.

Sets and reps

Most lifters do well with 8 to 15 reps per set, and 8 to 15 reps is where this exercise tends to work best. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve on every set, and add weight once you can complete all your sets at the top of the range. It also works well in a superset with an exercise for the opposite muscles.

Equipment

Dumbbells

Type

Compound

Dumbbell Front Squat alternatives

More quads exercises

Frequently asked questions

What muscles does the Dumbbell Front Squat work?

The Dumbbell Front Squat mainly works your quads, with help from your glutes, core and upper back.

How many sets and reps should I do?

A good starting point is 8 to 15 reps per set, and many lifters get the best results between 8 to 15 reps. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve.

Is the Dumbbell Front Squat good for beginners?

Yes. The Dumbbell Front Squat is considered beginner and is a good choice if you are new to training. Start light and focus on form.

What equipment do I need for the Dumbbell Front Squat?

You need dumbbells.

Dumbbell Front Squat demonstration

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