Glutes exercise · body weight
Single Leg Squat (Pistol) Male
The single leg squat (pistol) male is a bodyweight exercise that targets the glutes, with the quadriceps, hamstrings and calves assisting.
- Target muscle
- Glutes
- Also works
- Quadriceps, hamstrings, calves
- Equipment
- Body weight
- Body part
- Upper legs
How to do the single leg squat (pistol) male
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and arms extended in front of you.
- Lift your right foot off the ground and extend it forward.
- Slowly lower your body down by bending your left knee and pushing your hips back.
- Keep your chest up and your back straight as you lower yourself down.
- Lower until your left thigh is parallel to the ground, or as low as you can comfortably go.
- Pause for a moment at the bottom, then push through your left heel to return to the starting position.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, then switch legs.
Sets and reps
Start with 3 sets of 10–15 reps, resting 45–60 seconds. When every set feels easy, add reps, slow the lowering phase or move to a harder variation.
Muscles worked
The main muscle is the glutes. The quadriceps, hamstrings and calves work as secondary muscles. See all glute exercises or every bodyweight exercise.







