Pistol Squat

Pistol Squat is one of the top quads exercises using bodyweight. Full breakdown of proper form, common mistakes and FAQs.

How to perform it

• Feet shoulder-width with toes turned out 15–30°.
• Brace your core and take a deep breath (Valsalva) before descending.
• Sit hips back and down until thighs are parallel to the floor or lower.
• Drive through mid-foot, pushing knees out in line with toes.
• Exhale at the top. Aim for 6–10 reps × 3–5 sets.

Tips

• Knees should track over your toes — not cave in.
• Weight balanced over mid-foot, not just toes or heels.
• Use a lifting belt above 80% of your 1RM.

Common mistakes

• Knees caving inward — major injury risk.
• Lower-back rounding at the bottom (butt wink).
• Heels lifting off the floor — use lifting shoes or a small plate under the heels.

How many sets and reps of Pistol Squat should I do?

3–4 sets × 8–12 reps for hypertrophy, or 4–5 × 4–6 for strength, with 90–180s rest.

Is Pistol Squat good for beginners?

Pistol Squat is an advanced movement — build up with easier variations for months first.

What are the best alternatives to Pistol Squat?

It depends on your equipment. Similar tools (dumbbells for barbell, machines for free weights) provide comparable stimulus. See the "Related exercises" section on this page.

Can I do Pistol Squat every day?

Not recommended for lifting — muscles need 48 hours to recover. 3–4x/week is optimal. Light cardio can be daily.

How many calories does Pistol Squat burn per minute?

Roughly 6–9 kcal/minute depending on your weight and intensity.