5 Barbell Squat Alternatives You Can Do At Home
When it comes to barbell squats they can be intimidating especially if you have a history of low back pain or surgery.
This is why you need to build a solid list of go-to lower body exercises you can use for barbell squat alternatives.
Pro Tip: You don’t have to even do barbell squats and still have strong legs that look great while sparing the constant fear of flair-ups and back pain barbell squats may cause you now.
In today’s video, I share with you 5 total barbell squat alternatives you can do right at home with a basic home gym setup.
What Can I Use If I Don't Have A Barbell?
Some of you may want to do barbell squats and don’t have an issue with them messing with your lower back while others would be totally okay with removing the barbell squat from their program.
So what can you use instead if you don’t have a barbell?
These are the go-to tools I use for barbell squat alternatives:
- Resistance Bands (these specific ones)
- Kettlebells
- Dumbbells
- My Bodyweight
You don’t need a massive dumbbell or kettlebell collection either. I like to take the weight I have and double up with a resistance band to make it even harder. This works great if you don’t have a lot to work with but need the extra resistance.
If you’re needing more examples of using these tools check out this video!
How Do You Squat Without A Barbell?
Well, when defining the squat it doesn’t necessarily include a barbell on your back.
The barbell back squat is probably the most widely accepted version of the squat but simple hinging at the hips is considered a form of squat.
When it comes to alternatives to the barbell squat it really just comes down to mimicking this exact move with the exercise tool of your choice.
For example. I can do the Goblet Squat with a weight held at my chest and I can also do a hanging squat with weight being hung between my legs. Both are squats but being done differently.
Below is a list of the best lower body training videos. These are all great barbell squat alternatives to try!
Should I Give Up Barbell Squatting Completely?
This comes down to personal prefernce. if you really enjoy the barbell swuat alternatives I shared in this post and your. body feels great not barbell squatting then why go back to it?
I know it looks cool and everyone is doing it but at what cost?
If the barbell squat just doesn’t work for you then find some alternative exercises that do.
If you want to hear my full opinion on barbell squatting and why ai don’t do it check out the video below!
