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LegsQuadsAdvanced
Pistol Squat
The king of bodyweight leg exercises. A full single-leg squat requiring strength, balance, and mobility.
3 sets of 5-10 per leg
None
Quick Stats
2
Target Muscles
5
Steps
3
Pro Tips
3
Progressions
Benefits
Single-leg strength
Balance
Addresses imbalances
No equipment needed
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps for perfect form
1
Stand on one leg.
2
Extend other leg forward.
3
Lower into a single-leg squat.
4
Go to full depth.
5
Stand back up.
Pro Tips
Work on ankle mobility
Use counterweight if needed
Practice box pistols first
Common Mistakes
✕Not going deep enough
✕Knee caving
✕Heel coming up
Target Muscles
Primary Muscles
QuadsGlutes
Secondary Muscles
HamstringsCore
Progressions
Level up your training
1Assisted Pistol
Easier2Box Pistol
Easier3Weighted Pistol
HarderRelated Exercises
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Beginner
Bodyweight Squat
The fundamental lower body movement. Essential for leg strength and mobility.
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Advanced
Shrimp Squat
A challenging single-leg squat where your rear foot is held behind you, touching your knee to the ground.
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Intermediate
Bulgarian Split Squat
A split squat with the rear foot elevated on a bench. Great for building single-leg strength.
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Ready to Practice Pistol Squat?
Find a calisthenics park with open space near you and start training.