Cable Squat

The cable squat (low pulley squat) uses a low cable attachment to counterbalance the body weight, encouraging an upright torso. It is excellent for beginners learning squat mechanics.

Beginner 💪 Quads Compound Squat
3
Sets
12–15
Reps
90 sec
Rest
Compound
Type
🏋️ Cable
Cable Squat — start and finish positionsSTARTFINISH
Cable
Quads Beginner Compound
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Muscles Worked

Learn more in the Quads training guide →

Primary
Quads
Secondary
Glutes
Hamstrings
Highlighted muscles

How To Perform

  1. 1 Attach a rope or handle to the low cable. Hold at chest height.
  2. 2 Stand with feet shoulder-width, toes slightly out.
  3. 3 Squat down, using the cable for counterbalance.
  4. 4 Drive back up to standing.

Form Cues

  • ✓ The cable counterbalance allows a more upright torso — use this to sit taller.
  • ✓ Knees track over toes throughout.

Common Mistakes

  • ✗ Letting the knees cave.
  • ✗ Leaning too far back against the cable.
💡 Professor Splits Says:

Progressive overload is the engine of muscle growth. Track your weights and aim to add small increments weekly. For Cable Squat, this means gradually increasing load, volume (sets × reps), or decreasing rest periods over time.

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Where This Exercise Fits

FAQ

How many sets of Cable Squat should I do?▾
3 sets of 12–15 reps is a solid starting point. Adjust based on your training frequency and overall weekly volume for quads. Beginners should start with the lower end; advanced trainees can push toward the upper range.
What muscles does Cable Squat target?▾
Cable Squat primarily targets the Quads. Secondary muscles include Glutes, Hamstrings.
Is Cable Squat good for beginners?▾
Cable Squat is beginner-friendly. Focus on technique with lighter loads before adding weight.
How much rest between sets?▾
For Cable Squat, 90 sec of rest between sets is recommended. Compound exercises require more recovery — longer rests (2–3 min) allow better performance on the next set.