Eccentryx / Exercise Atlas / legs

Low-bar back squat

Bar rests on rear delt shelf, hip-width stance, hips break before knees.

Muscles

Primary
quads
Supporting
glutes, hamstrings, lower back

Mechanics

Pattern
squat
Equipment
barbell, rack
Geometry
90° Alignment
Energy model
Glycolytic Pathway (10-90s)
Target feel
Hip drive dominates; torso stays more horizontal than high-bar.
Progression
Add 2.5–5 kg when all reps hit depth with stable torso angle.
Regression
High-bar squat if hip mobility doesn't allow the forward lean.

Watch for

  • Good-morning squat — hips rise faster than shoulders out of the hole
  • Bar rolled too high onto traps — causes wrist and elbow pain
  • Knees caving inward on the ascent

Substitutions

  • Back squat (high-bar)
  • Hack squat
  • Leg press
Open Low-bar back squat in the app →