Back to library
Exercise Library
Weighted Sissy Squat
A knee-dominant squat performed leaning back on the toes with added weight, isolating the quadriceps through a deep stretch.
LegsOtherKnee flexion
Primary
Quadriceps
Secondary
Hip flexorsCalves
Equipment
Other
Pattern
Knee flexion
Setup
- 01Hold a weight plate against the chest with one arm.
- 02Stand with feet hip width, near a support to hold.
- 03Rise onto the balls of the feet.
- 04Keep the hips extended and the body in one line.
Execution
- 01Bend the knees and let them travel far forward.
- 02Lean the torso back as the knees drop toward the floor.
- 03Descend as deep as control allows.
- 04Squeeze the quads to return to standing.
Checkpoints
- -Hips stay extended; the body forms a straight line from knees to head.
- -Heels stay raised on the balls of the feet.
- -The knees travel forward and down, not out.
- -The descent is slow and fully controlled.
Common mistakes
- -Breaking at the hips and turning it into a regular squat.
- -Dropping too deep too soon and straining the knees.
- -Losing balance by rushing the descent.
- -Adding weight before mastering the bodyweight version.
Programming notes
- -Use 2 to 3 sets of 6 to 12 slow reps.
- -Own the bodyweight movement before holding a plate.
- -Progress depth first, then load, in small plate increments.
Related exercises
Almost there
Coming soon to iOS & Android
GoLightWeight is in the final stretch. Free to download, no account required to start.
Coming soonApp Store
Coming soonGoogle Play