quads · Kettlebells · Beginner

Goblet Squat

The goblet squat holds a kettlebell or dumbbell at the chest, which counterbalances you and makes a deep squat easy to learn. It is the first squat in most beginner glute programs.

Why it's in a glute program: The friendliest way to learn a deep, glute-driven squat.

Woman performing the goblet squat in a gym
Goblet Squat start position, illustrated Goblet Squat midpoint, illustrated Goblet Squat end position, illustrated
Goblet Squat start position
Start
Goblet Squat end position
End

How to do the goblet squat

  1. Stand holding a light kettlebell by the horns close to your chest. This will be your starting position.
  2. Squat down between your legs until your hamstrings are on your calves. Keep your chest and head up and your back straight.
  3. At the bottom position, pause and use your elbows to push your knees out. Return to the starting position, and repeat for 10-20 repetitions.

Form cues

Muscles worked

Primary: quads. Movement pattern: squat. Equipment: kettlebells.

Programs that use the goblet squat

In Glute Max this exercise appears in 2 of the coach-built programs, including Glute Kickstart — 2 Day, Peach Foundations — 3 Day. Every program shows the animated form guide above on the workout screen.

Related glute exercises

Want these in a program built for you?

Glute Max asks about your equipment, goal, and schedule, then builds your week and animates every exercise. Free to download, 3-day trial on the yearly plan.

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