How to Do Overhead Squat
Step-by-step instructions, muscles worked and workouts that use the overhead squat.

| Main muscles | Quads |
| Also works | Abs, Calves, Glutes, Hamstrings, Lower Back, Shoulders, Triceps |
| Equipment | Barbell |
| Level | Expert |
| Type | Olympic Weightlifting |
How to do it
- Start out by having a barbell in front of you on the floor. Your feet should be wider than shoulder width apart from each other.
- Bend the knees and use a pronated grip (palms facing you) to grab the barbell. Your hands should be at a wider than shoulder width apart from each other before lifting. Once you are positioned, lift the barbell up until you can rest it on your chest.
- Move the barbell over and slightly behind your head and make sure your arms are fully extended. Keep your head up at all times and also maintain a straight back. Retract your shoulder blades. This is your starting position.
- Slowly lower the weight by bending your knees until your thighs are parallel to the ground while inhaling. Tip: Keep your back straight while performing this exercise to avoid any injuries and your arms should remain extended and over your head at all times.
- Now use your feet and legs to help bring the weight back up to the starting position while exhaling.
- Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Form tips
- Start light and own the movement before adding weight.
- Control the lowering phase — don't drop into it.
- Keep breathing; exhale on the hardest part.
- Stop if you feel sharp pain (different from muscle burn).
Similar exercises






Gear for this exercise
Barbell and plates setA proper home strength setup for squats and presses.See it on Amazon →
Squat rack / power rackThe centre of a serious home gym.See it on Amazon →New fat-loss tips every day. Follow danfitnz everywhere: