How and Why to Do a Pistol Squat
Posted on December 21, 2016A pistol squat is an advanced calisthenics exercise that you can do at home with little to no equipment. The pistol squat works the quadriceps, hamstrings and gluteus muscles. It builds strength and balance and requires a good amount of flexibility in ankles and hips. The pistol squat is simple a single leg bodyweight squat, it puts the entire load of the body on a single leg making it a challenging exercise.
What Does a Full Pistol Squat Look Like?
To get to the pistol squats work through the different progressions shown in the video. With hard work and dedication you’ll eventually get to the full pistol squat.
Basic Techniques of Pistol Squat
The advantage of the pistol squat versus other leg exercises is that it is quite a bit more challenging and therefore builds strength more effectively than traditional squats or lunges. It also works lateral stabilizer and hip muscles that are not needed to the same extent as exercises that are done on 2 legs. Limitations in ankle or hip are quickly discovered and keeping the pistol in your training program will help maintain good flexibility as well.
One Exercise to Help Bridge the Gap
