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Suspension Trainer Split Squat

Intermediate
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A unilateral lunge variation performed with the rear foot elevated in suspension straps, targeting the quads and glutes to build strength and stability.

About Exercise

Equipment

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Quads, Glutes

Secondary Muscles

Calves, Abs

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Stability
Conditioning

Training Style

Functional Training
Calisthenics

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Quads

9/10

Rectus Femoris, Vastus Lateralis, Vastus Medialis

Glutes

8/10

Glute Max, Glute Medius

Hamstrings

6/10

Biceps Femoris, Semitendinosus, Semimembranosus

Calves

4/10

Gastrocnemius

Abs

3/10

Rectus Abdominis

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-120 seconds

How to Perform

Adjust the suspension straps to mid-calf height. Stand facing away from the anchor point and place the top of one foot into the foot cradles.

  1. Stand on your front leg with your torso upright and core braced.
  2. Lower your hips by bending the front knee, allowing the rear knee to travel toward the floor.
  3. Descend until your front thigh is parallel to the ground.
  4. Drive through the front foot to extend the leg and return to the starting position.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Chest up
  • Front knee over toes
  • Drive through heel
  • Maintain balance

Breathing

Inhale as you lower into the squat, exhale as you drive back up.

Tempo

3-1-1

Range of Motion

Lower until the front thigh is parallel to the floor and the rear knee is just above the ground.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Ensure the suspension trainer is securely anchored.
  • Maintain a stable front foot position.

Spotting

Self-spot by holding onto a stable object if balance is compromised.

Common Mistakes

  • Front knee caving inward
  • Excessive forward lean
  • Hyperextending the lower back
  • Rushing the movement

When to Avoid

  • Acute knee injuries
  • Lower back pain
  • Hip instability

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate ankle dorsiflexion
  • Hip flexion range for depth

Build Up First

  • Master basic bodyweight squat
  • Familiarity with unilateral balance

Also known as

TRX Split Squat, Suspension Bulgarian Split Squat, Rear Foot Elevated Suspension Lunge, TRX Bulgarian Split Squat

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