How to do a Balance Trainer Goblet Squat
Reviewed by JP Michelsen, CPT, B.A. Kinesiology
About Balance Trainer Goblet Squat
Target muscles worked
Instructions for Proper Form
The Balance Trainer Goblet Squat enhances lower body and core strength by adding instability to the traditional goblet squat. Using a balance trainer, such as a BOSU ball, it requires greater balance and coordination, targeting the quads, glutes, and core more intensely. Ideal for those seeking to improve functional fitness alongside muscle growth and stability.
- Stand on top of the Balance Trainer dome in a hip width stance with level feet.
- Hold a kettlebell with both hands in front of the chest.
- Bend the hips, knees and ankles into a comfortable depth squat.
- Pause at the bottom of the movement, then slowly press back up to standing position.
- Keep the chest lifted and maintain a braced core throughout the exercise.
Weight & 1 Rep Max Calculator
Average Balance Trainer Goblet Squat standards by male, female, weight, age and height
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Alternative Exercises to Balance Trainer Goblet Squat
1. Dumbbell Goblet Squat
87.9 mSCORESWAPPED 111 TIMESDumbbell Goblet Squat is a variation on the more standard Front Squat. Like other squat variations, this compound exercise primarily targets the quadriceps. Goblet squats are beneficial because they require less upper body mobility in order to keep the weight in the proper position compared to using a barbell.
2. Balance Trainer Squat
56.3 mSCORESWAPPED 99 TIMESBalance Trainer Squat is a bodyweight variation on the more standard Squat. Like other Squat variations, this is a compound exercise that primarily targets the quadriceps. By using a Balance Trainer you add significantly more instability to the movement, which can help you develop balance and coordination, as well as achieve better muscle activation when compared to something like an Air Squat.
- Beginner
- Quads
- BOSU® Balance Trainer
3. Leg Extension
99.4 mSCORESWAPPED 86 TIMESLeg Extensions are an isolation exercise that target the quads. Due to a severe lack of isolation movements for the lower body, this is a great option for specifically targeting your quadriceps. The use of a machine restricts your range of motion, and adds some stability to the movement. This can help your focus more on exertion than stabilizing the movement. The downside to this exercise is that it places a lot of tension on your knee. Keep your weights light, and focus on pausing near the end of your range of motion.
- Beginner
- Quads
- Leg Extension Machine
4. Dumbbell Squat
94.1 mSCORESWAPPED 77 TIMESDumbbell Squat is a variation of the more standard Squat. Like other variations, this is a compound exercise that primarily targets the quadriceps. The advantage of using dumbbells rather than a barbell is that you have more freedom in your range of motion which can make this a more accessible variation for anyone with mobility limitations. With that freedom comes a bit more instability with this exercise though, which can help you further improve your squat for, and build the strength needed for heavier, or more complex variations.
5. Leg Press
99.7 mSCORESWAPPED 60 TIMESLeg Press is a compound exercise that primarily targets the quadriceps. The exercise itself is fairly similar to a standard squat, with some key differences. The biggest of these differences is the added stability from supporting your back on the Leg Press Machine. The end result of these changes is a more stable movement that further emphasizes your quadriceps. Leg Press is an excellent exercise for anyone looking to build muscle mass or strength in their quads.
- Beginner
- Quads
- Leg Press
6. Air Squats
92.1 mSCORESWAPPED 53 TIMESAir Squats are a bodyweight variation of Squats. Like other variations, this is a compound exercise that primarily targets the quadriceps. Without any added resistance this is easily one of the most beginner friendly exercises out there. It’s a great way to start building strength, and working your way towards more advanced variations.
- Beginner
- Quads
7. Machine Leg Press
95.1 mSCORESWAPPED 49 TIMESMachine Leg Press is a variation on the more standard Leg Press. Like the Leg Press, this is a compound exercise that primarily recruits the quadriceps. This is a great exercise for building strength and muscle mass in your quads. The use of a machine doesn’t change anything significant about this exercise, although your positioning may change depending on the machine you’re using.
- Beginner
- Quads
- Leg Press Machine
8. Kettlebell Goblet Squat
0.7 mSCORESWAPPED 48 TIMESThe Kettlebell Goblet Squat is a compound exercise that targets the quads, glutes, and core, emphasizing proper squat form and depth. Holding the kettlebell close to the chest improves posture and engages the core, offering a safer alternative for individuals with lower back concerns. This variation is particularly effective for beginners to learn squat mechanics and for experienced lifters to enhance squat depth and lower body strength. The added front load challenges stability and increases the demand on the anterior core, making it a versatile exercise for improving functional strength and mobility.
- Intermediate
- Quads
- Kettlebells
9. Smith Machine Squat
94.3 mSCORESWAPPED 38 TIMESSmith Machine Squat is a variation on the more standard Squat. Like other variations, this is a compound exercise that primarily targets your quads. The use of a Smith Machine restricts your range of motion, and adds significantly more stability to the movement. This makes this exercise a great choice for learning proper squat mechanics, and developing strength in your lower body.
- Beginner
- Quads
- Smith Machine
10. Dumbbell Lunge
97.6 mSCORESWAPPED 38 TIMESDumbbell Lunge is a variation on the more standard Lunge. Similar to other Lunge variations, Dumbbell Lunge is a compound exercise that primarily targets the quads. The exercise itself is the same as a standard lunge except for the added weight from holding dumbbells in each hand. This is a great variation for anyone looking to make their lunges a bit more challenging without adding more complexity to the movement.