Classification
| Type | basic |
| Mechanics | compound |
| Direction | push |
| Equipment | barbell |
| Additional Equipment | (barbell rack) |
Instructions
Preparation
With rack:The easiest way to get into starting position is to place barbell on rack at height of waist. Stand in front of it and put the crook of your elbows under the bar. Lift it.
Without rack:
Little trickier technique, but since it is a tricky exercise, anyone intendíng to do Zercher squats will have to learn this as well.
1. Place barbell on floor, stand in front if it, squat down, grasp it and lift it the way you deadlift.
2. Squat down again while resting the barbell on your thighs, until you are able to place the crook af your arms below the barbell.
3. Squat up and hold the barbell in front of your waist.
Execution
Squat down until thighs are parallel to floor. Keep your back upright and straight an look ahead. Squat up, keep your knees slightly bent and repeat.Variations / Comments
At first glance Zercher Squats seem to be a strange thing, a hybrid of squats and deadlifts, but itīs a great and relatively safe exercise for heavy weight lifting since thereīs no spine compression involved. It may cause pain in your arms and belly. Most strength athletes get used to it. Otherwise place a towel between arms and barbell and/or belly and barbell to lower the pressure.
Starting Position 
Ending Position Muscles
| Target | Quadriceps |
| Synergist | Gluteus Maximus | Soleus |
| Stabilizers | Hamstrings | Gastrocnemius | Erector Spinae | Rectus Abdominis | Deltoid, Anterior | Biceps Brachii | Brachialis |
Front
Rear
