Quads · Compound movement
Split-Squat Jump
A compound exercise for the quads, with the glutes, hamstrings and calves working too. No equipment needed.
Working range
3–6reps
Progression: manual
- Primary muscle
- Quads
- Secondary muscles
- Glutes, Hamstrings, Calves
- Equipment
- Bodyweight
- Difficulty
- Advanced
How to perform the Split-Squat Jump
- Set up in a split stance with one foot forward and one back, both knees bent toward a lunge and the torso upright.
- Drop into the bottom of the lunge, then jump straight up explosively off both legs.
- While airborne, switch the position of the legs so you land with the opposite foot forward.
- Absorb the landing by sinking softly back into the split-squat position, then immediately jump and switch again, keeping each rep balanced and controlled.
Suggested working range: 3–6 reps. Default progression: manual.
Common mistakes
- •Landing with the front knee collapsing inward or drifting far past the toes under the impact.
- •Keeping the torso pitched forward instead of tall, which shifts load off the legs and onto the lower back.
- •Taking such short, shallow jumps that the feet barely switch, missing the explosive intent.
- •Crashing down rigidly between reps rather than sinking softly into the split to absorb the landing.
Variations & alternatives
Swap in one of these when the equipment is taken or the main lift has stalled.
Use this exercise in a program
The Split-Squat Jump fits into hypertrophy and strength splits that prioritize quads volume.
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