Barbell Lunge

Target muscle

Glutes

Also works

Quadriceps, hamstrings, calves

Equipment

Barbell

Body part

Upper legs

How to do the barbell lunge

1. Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and a barbell resting on your upper back.
2. Take a step forward with your right foot, keeping your torso upright.
3. Lower your body by bending your right knee until your thigh is parallel to the ground.
4. Push through your right heel to return to the starting position.
5. Repeat with your left leg, alternating legs for the desired number of repetitions.

Sets and reps

For muscle growth, 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with 60–90 seconds of rest is a proven starting point. For strength, use a heavier weight for 3–5 sets of 3–6 reps and rest 2–3 minutes. Add a little weight once you hit the top of your rep range on every set.

Muscles worked

The main muscle is the glutes. The quadriceps, hamstrings and calves work as secondary muscles. See all glute exercises or every barbell exercise.