Dumbell Bulgarian Split Squat from Deficit

QuadricepsDumbbellIntermediate

The Dumbbell Bulgarian Split Squat from Deficit targets the quads, glutes, and hamstrings while improving balance and stability.

  1. Stand a few feet in front of a bench or elevated surface.
  2. Place one foot behind you on the bench.
  3. Hold a dumbbell in each hand at your sides.
  4. Lower your body into a squat, keeping your front knee aligned with your ankle.
  5. Push through your front heel to return to the starting position.

How to perform the Dumbell Bulgarian Split Squat from Deficit

  1. Set up. Set up in a stable, balanced starting position appropriate for the Dumbell Bulgarian Split Squat from Deficit using your dumbbell.
  2. Brace and execute. Brace your core, control the descent, and move through a full pain-free range of motion while emphasizing your quadriceps.
  3. Reset. Reverse the movement under control and reset between repetitions, keeping your form crisp on every rep.

Coaching cues

  • Move with intent — every rep should feel deliberate, not rushed.
  • Drive force through your quadriceps rather than momentum.
  • Keep your breathing steady: exhale on the hard part, inhale on the reset.

Common mistakes

  • Using too much weight and losing positional control.
  • Cutting the range of motion short and missing the target muscle.
  • Letting your spine round or hyperextend instead of staying neutral.

Detailed cues, common mistakes, and demonstration video are available in the Fitly app.

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