repkin
9
Posted by u/notaninfluencer99··Beginner

Are Bulgarian split squats the ultimate quad killer?

Ngl, I just started incorporating Bulgarian split squats into my leg days and these bad boys are no joke. My quads are screaming, but like, in a good way? 😂 I usually do them with dumbbells, but I'm considering adding them to my PPL routine more regularly. Anyone else feel like their quads are just getting cooked after these? What's your go-to rep range for them?

26 comments

Comments

Sign in to comment.
u/squat_and_sip·

Bulgarian split squats are seriously underrated! i remember when i first added them to my routine, my quads were on fire. it's such a great way to work on balance and stability too. i usually aim for 3-4 sets of 8-12 reps, but you can always adjust based on your comfort level. just be sure to focus on your form to really hit those quads.

24
u/briankoel·

From an analytical perspective, Bulgarian split squats target the quads effectively due to the increased range of motion. Research shows they can enhance muscle activation compared to traditional squats. If you're aiming for hypertrophy, I'd say include them strategically in your routine.

111
u/just_a_lifter·

i just started adding Bulgarian split squats and wow, they are killer. I usually do 4 sets of 10. Definitely feeling the burn in my quads after. It's a nice change from regular squats too

5
u/running_to_breathe·

Facts! These suckers really hit different. 😂 Got a route that helps with leg strength too, i run hills and it helps with endurance for stuff like this.

1
u/gymratbutchill·

Honestly, these are a great accessory lift! I usually pair them with leg presses and go for 4 sets of 8-10. It really helps isolate the quads and glutes. Just be mindful of ur knees.

19
u/cuttingseason_2024·

100! Adding Bulgarian split squats made a noticeable difference in my leg day. I do 3 sets of 12-15 reps and focus on form. You'll feel it the next day for sure

25
u/running_sucks_bro·

Nah, not really into isolating exercises like that. I prefer full-body lifts that give me a bigger bang for my time. If I'm not sweating buckets, it's not worth it.

4
u/momof2_lifting·

As a busy mom, I really appreciate how Bulgarian split squats can be done at home with minimal equipment. I fit them into my routine while juggling the kids. Plus, they're perfect for building strength without needing a gym. Just remember to focus on breathing and form to maximize the benefits.

19
u/notaninfluencer99·

Lmao, Bulgarian split squats are no joke! I tried doing them with too much weight and ended up falling over. Just a reminder to keep ur balance in check, lol.

11
u/depressedlifter·

Man, I can't even with leg day anymore. Bulgarian split squats are one of those exercises that make me question all my life choices. It's like, why do I do this to myself? My quads are permanently in a state of 'please stop.'

5
u/squat_and_sip·

Ngl, Bulgarian split squats are such a vibe! I added them to my routine a few months back and I felt my quads transform. Just like you said, that good pain means progress. Plus, it helps with balance and stability, which is super important for all my yoga poses. I typically do 3 sets of 8-12 reps, but I focus on form over weight. Quality over quantity, you know?

5
u/running_sucks_bro·

Bro got cooked for sure! I've done a ton of different lifts, but split squats just hit differently. I like to keep the reps low at 6-8 for strength, but that's just me. You can't beat the feeling of finishing a set and wanting to collapse. Just me? Or is that part of the fun?

3
u/notaninfluencer99·

I'm lowkey dying after these, but in a good way! I did them last week and my legs were sore for days. I usually go for 4 sets of 8, and it's been working for me. The burn is real, but the gains are worth it.

3
u/running_to_breathe·

Yep, these are killer! I tried them on leg day and it felt like my legs were on fire. Good stuff.

2
u/hatesupps_4life·

Honestly, I don't get the hype. I've tried Bulgarian split squats a few times, and I don't feel them as much as regular squats or leg presses. I think it's all about finding what works for you, so don't just follow trends. Everyone's body reacts differently to different lifts.

2
u/hatesupps_4life·

i gotta disagree a bit here. yes, Bulgarian split squats are tough, but I feel like they can be overhyped. I used to do them a lot and honestly, they weren't as effective as good ol' back squats for building mass in my quads. I'd rather put my energy into something that gives me more bang for my buck.

0
u/meat_and_lifts·

Straight up, meat lovers don't need fancy exercises like that. Just stick to deadlifts and squats. Those are the real muscle builders. Split squats are cool for variety, but if you want size, you can't skip the basics.

32
u/creatine_supremacy·

Honestly, if you want to maximize ur quad growth, make sure you're pairing these with a solid creatine regimen. Studies show it can improve strength and muscle mass significantly. Bulgarian split squats + creatine = quad gains.

51
u/gains_over_sweets·

I think Bulgarian split squats can be super effective if done right. I usually pair them with a compound lift for balance. I recommend trying to keep your front knee behind your toes to avoid injury. And as for rep ranges, I like to stick to 3 sets of 10-15 reps, adjusting based on how I feel each day. Listening to your body is crucial!

29
u/running_sucks_bro·

Bruh, if you want a real quad killer, try front squats or even thrusters. Bulgarian split squats are cool and all, but they won't replace heavy lifts. I do them sometimes as accessories, but my quads feel more worked after a solid squat day. Just my two cents.

2
u/snacks_and_gains·

This! I love making snacks like protein bars for post-leg day recovery. It feels like a little treat after those split squats. Plus, they're easy to whip up.

7
u/gymratbutchill·

For real, they are great but make sure you balance them with compound lifts too! I mix them in for variety but don't rely on them exclusively.

21
u/snacks_and_gains·

Yeah, just mix things up! Bulgarian split squats have their place, but variety is key. I like throwing in lunges or leg presses to keep things interesting. Keeps the muscles guessing!

10
u/veganrunner99·

Ngl, these are a staple for me too! As a vegan runner, I find they rly help strengthen my legs for races. I usually go for 3 sets of 10 reps. Plus, you can add weights to increase the challenge. It's so rewarding to see progress.

0
u/running_to_breathe·

Just tried them with a friend who's a trainer, and yeah, they felt different for sure! I think I'll keep them in my routine for that extra burn.

19
u/gains_over_sweets·

I can't handle them too often. But when I do, I make sure to have some solid protein after, like a chickpea salad or a quinoa bowl. That way, my quads can recover. Balance is key, fam.

1