The Prime Mover for the Back Squat Exercise

The back squat is one of the most effective exercises for developing lower body strength and power. To properly perform a back squat, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and position a loaded barbell across your upper back and shoulders, securing it in place with an overhand grip. Stabilize your torso, straighten your back, look straight ahead and bend your hips and knees to lower yourself until your thighs are parallel with the floor. Press through your heels to return to the starting position.

Main Squeeze

The gluteus maximus and the quadriceps are the prime movers for back squats. During the upward phase of the squat, the glutes are responsible for the hip extension and the quads for the knee extension.

Second String

The hamstrings assist the glutes in hip extension. An adductor magnus on the inner thigh of each leg prevents your legs from flaring outward during the exercise. Upper body muscles are also targeted during the back squat. They include the abs and erector spinae, which work together to stabilize and support the torso throughout the exercise.