Bodyweight squat alternatives

A goblet squat adds a front-held weight to a two-leg squat. Reverse lunges and walking lunges offer unloaded split-stance work when a broader leg-training option fits your plan.

These options change either the load or the stance. If you need an unloaded two-leg squat for practice, none of them is an identical replacement.

Two-frame anatomical illustration of a bodyweight squat on a white background. On the left, a man stands with his feet a little wider than his hips, toes turned slightly out and both arms extended forward at shoulder height. On the right, the same man is in a deep squat with his heels planted, knees bent outward over his feet, hips below his knees and torso leaning forward while his arms remain extended. No equipment or external weight is shown. The quadriceps, glute area, inner thighs and part of the lower legs are highlighted red.
What equipment can you use?

Choose everything you have. Some exercises need two items, such as dumbbells and a flat bench. Choose floor space for options without equipment.

Your replacements

Choose your equipment above to see replacements.

Compare all alternatives

These options need different equipment. Use the finder above to show only the setups you can use.

  • Anatomical illustration of a woman holding one dumbbell at her chest while performing a goblet squat, with the thighs and glutes highlighted.

    Similar movement

    Goblet squat

    You need: Dumbbells

    Why it fits
    Keeps a two-leg squat while adding a single weight at the chest.
    What changes
    The linked guide holds one dumbbell. Added load and arm support change the demand; start with a manageable weight rather than treating it as the same bodyweight set.
    See exercise guide
  • Different movement

    Reverse lunges

    You need: Floor space (no equipment)

    Why it fits
    Can fill an unloaded leg-training slot without a weight or machine.
    What changes
    You step backward into a split stance and work one leg at a time. Balance and the stepping action differ from a two-leg squat; complete work on each side.
    See exercise guide
  • Anatomical illustration showing four side-view phases of bodyweight walking lunges, with the thighs and glutes highlighted.

    Different movement

    Walking lunges

    You need: Floor space (no equipment)

    Why it fits
    Offers unloaded leg work with alternating forward steps.
    What changes
    The linked guide uses bodyweight and moves along a clear path. Each leg works through a split stance rather than both legs squatting together.
    See exercise guide
See the original exercise guide

How we choose replacements

These are curated alternatives, chosen for the movement and the job the exercise does in a workout. A shared muscle group is not enough. Read what changes before choosing: support, range of motion, balance and resistance can all differ. If your goal is to improve a specific lift, alternatives do not replace practice of that lift.

Explore alternatives by exercise