Full Zercher Squat

Targets the quads and core while building upper back thickness. The unique bar position forces the core to work harder than in a traditional squat.

Exercise Details

Level
Advanced
Body Area
lower
Type
squat
Mechanics
Compound
Required Equipment
Target Muscle Groups
Primary
Secondary

Setup

Hold the bar in the crooks of your elbows. Clasp your hands together. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and a braced core.

Instructions

1. Lower into a deep squat.
2. Keep your chest up and shoulders retracted.
3. Stop when thighs are at least parallel to the floor.
4. Drive back up to the starting position.
5. Maintain core tension.

Common Mistakes

1. Rounding the upper back.
2. Sagging the hips.
3. Holding your breath.

Alternative Exercises

Squat
Beginner / Bodyweight-only / Quads / squat
The fundamental lower-body compound exercise. It targets the quadriceps, glutes, and hamstrings while building core stability and overall functional strength.
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