Quads · Compound movement

Kettlebell Goblet Squat

A compound exercise that targets the quads with secondary work in glutes. Performed with kettlebells.

Primary muscle

Quads

Secondary muscles

Glutes

Equipment

Machine

Difficulty

Intermediate

How to perform the Kettlebell Goblet Squat

  1. Hold a single kettlebell by the horns of the handle against your chest with the elbows tucked in underneath.
  2. The kettlebell hangs slightly below the hands, so it sits close to the body and counterbalances the squat nicely.
  3. Set the feet slightly wider than shoulder width with the toes turned out and brace the core.
  4. Sit straight down between the hips, letting the elbows track down the inside of the thighs.
  5. Descend to a deep bottom position while keeping the torso upright and the chest tall.
  6. Drive through the mid-foot to stand, keeping the kettlebell pinned tight against the chest.

Suggested working range: 1015 reps. Default progression: double progression.

Common mistakes

  • Letting the kettlebell drift off the chest, which pulls the torso forward.
  • Rounding the upper back to hold a too-heavy bell instead of staying tall.
  • Cutting the squat short rather than sinking to a deep bottom.
  • Letting the knees cave inward on the way up.

Variations & alternatives

Swap in a related movement if equipment, recovery, or progression demands it.

Use this exercise in a program

The Kettlebell Goblet Squat fits naturally into hypertrophy and strength splits that prioritize quads volume.

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