Upper Legs Exercise · Weighted

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Weighted Sissy Squat

Adding weight to the sissy squat — usually held against the chest — increases the already significant quad-stretch demand of the movement, which makes this an advanced variation reserved for lifters who've built up solid control with the bodyweight version first. The knee position here isn't for everybody, so this isn't the place to add load carelessly. Progress the weight in small increments and pay attention to how the knees feel session to session.

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Category

Upper Legs

Equipment

Weighted

Target

Quads

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Exercise reference published by PlanWorkouts; see our editorial standards.

How to Do the Weighted Sissy Squat

1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your toes pointing slightly outward.
2. Hold a weight in front of your chest with both hands, or place a barbell across your upper back.
3. Keeping your chest up and your core engaged, slowly lower your body by bending at the knees and hips.
4. Continue lowering until your thighs are parallel to the floor or as low as you can comfortably go.
5. Pause briefly at the bottom, then push through your heels to return to the starting position.
6. Perform for your targeted rep count, focusing on a deliberate tempo and maximum tension in the quads.

Technique & Form Tips

Execute the movement by bending hips and knees while maintaining balance over the midfoot. The specific torso angle and stance are determined by the chosen variation, focusing on controlled descent and ascent throughout the range of motion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Knee collapse: Keep the knees aligned with the feet to maintain stable tracking.
• Losing torso control: Match the torso position to the variation instead of suddenly dropping the chest or changing balance.
• Losing foot support: Keep the demonstrated foot contact during the lowering and rising phases. Jumping variations have a separate takeoff and landing.

How to Breathe During This Exercise

Breathe in a steady, controlled rhythm throughout the effort.

Comfort and Control

Choose a load and range you can control. Stop if the movement causes pain. If discomfort persists, stop and ask a qualified professional about an appropriate exercise and range.

General guidance: Mayo Clinic on weight-training technique. Follow the specific movement steps above for this variation.

Muscles Worked

The Weighted Sissy Squat mainly targets your Quads, with your Glutes helping support the movement, along with your Hamstrings, Calves.

More Upper Legs Exercises

All Fours Squad Stretch Body Weight · Quads Arms Apart Circular Toe Touch (male) Body Weight · Glutes Assisted Lying Glutes Stretch Assisted · Glutes Assisted Lying Gluteus And Piriformis Stretch Assisted · Glutes Assisted Prone Hamstring Assisted · Hamstrings Assisted Prone Lying Quads Stretch Assisted · Quads

More Quads Exercises

Backward Jump Body Weight · Quads Balance Board Body Weight · Quads Band One Arm Single Leg Split Squat Band · Quads Band Single Leg Split Squat Band · Quads Barbell Bench Front Squat Barbell · Quads Barbell Bench Squat Barbell · Quads

Equipment Alternatives

Don't have weighted? These target the same quads with different equipment.

Sissy Squat Body Weight · Quads Band One Arm Single Leg Split Squat Band · Quads Barbell Bench Front Squat Barbell · Quads Dumbbell Goblet Squat Dumbbell · Quads

FAQ

What muscles does the Weighted Sissy Squat work?

The Weighted Sissy Squat mainly works your quads. It also helps strengthen your glutes and hamstrings, calves. Using good, smooth form makes sure you work the right muscles and avoid unnecessary strain on your joints.

What equipment do I need for the Weighted Sissy Squat?

You do the Weighted Sissy Squat with a weighted. Make sure your equipment is set up safely before starting. If you work out at home or have limited gear, check out our alternative exercises below.

What form mistake should I watch for on the Weighted Sissy Squat?

One mistake to watch for is knee collapse: Keep the knees aligned with the feet to maintain stable tracking.. Use a comfortable range and a controlled return; reduce the load if you cannot maintain the demonstrated setup.

How many sets and reps should I perform on the Weighted Sissy Squat?

To build muscle size, aim for 3 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 reps with 90 to 120 seconds of rest. To build pure strength, focus on 4 to 5 sets of 3 to 6 heavier reps with 2 to 3 minutes of rest.

What's a good alternative to the Weighted Sissy Squat?

The Sissy Squat trains your quads with body weight and a similar movement pattern. Review its form guide before substituting it, since setup and range of motion can differ.