Barbell Workout for Lower Body
Are you looking to build strong, sculpted legs? This workout targets your quads, hamstrings, glutes and calves so it's a great lower body blast. It’s designed with our dedicated workout spaces in mind, and you only need a barbell and a step to give it a go!
1. Squat and Lunge Combo–10 reps x 3 sets
- With your feet shoulder-width apart, pick up the barbell and clean it up to your chest
- Press the barbell over the head and into the back-squat position, tucking your elbows in and under
- Sit back and down into a squat and return to standing
- Finish the rep by stepping the right leg back into a lunge position and then repeat on the left side
- Keep your core engaged throughout
Romanian Deadlift–12 reps x 3 sets
- Position your feet hip-width apart with a slight bend in your knee
- Hinge at the hip and move the barbell down your thighs
- Feel the stretch in your hamstring and then return back to standing
- Keep the weight close to the centre throughout and squeeze your glutes at the top of the movement
Bulgarian Split Squat--20 reps x 3 sets
- Set up a step on the highest setting --you can also do this on a bench or a box
- Starting on your right leg, step your left leg into a lunge position with your foot resting on the step
- Keep your legs parallel with your hips and descend into the split squat position
- Keep your core engaged and your chest high with a neutral gaze throughout
- Make sure the front knee is tracking over the toes in the lunge
- Use your quads to drive up out of the split squat position and return to standing
- Switch sides and repeat on your left leg
Hip Thrusts–20 reps x 3 sets
- Set up a step on the highest setting --you can also do this on a bench or a box
- Sit with your back to the step and roll or lift the barbell onto your hips depending on the weight and type of barbell that you are using
- Place the feet a little wider than hip-width and lean back so the upper back is supported on the step
- Aim for your shins to be vertical and perpendicular to the ground at the top of the movement pattern to maximise glute activation
- Drive up through your glutes and extend your hips fully, pause slightly and squeeze your glutes before repeating again
Calf Raises–12 reps x 3 sets
- Set up a step on the lowest setting--you can also do this on the floor but your range of motion will be reduced
- Stand up straight and place your hands on your hips for balance
- Lightly lift your left foot and push through the ball of your right foot until you are standing up on your toes
- Pause and then slowly lower back down to your starting position, using your left foot as a stabiliser if needed
- Keep your core tight and engaged throughout
- Repeat on both sides
Find more back to gym workout ideas here.