11/02/2026
- WHAT IS A HATFIELD SQUAT? 🏋️
A Hatfield squat (or split squat) is a variation where the athlete uses a safety squat bar while holding onto the rack or support with their hands.
This allows athletes to use their upper body for additional support, helping them handle heavier loads while maintaining control and focusing on the lower body.
WHY USE IT FOR PERFORMANCE?
💪 Greater Loading: Allows athletes to overload the legs without being limited as much by balance or upper-body demands.
🎯 Targeted Strength Development: Helps place more emphasis on the quads, glutes, and other lower-body musculature.
📈 Build Strength Through ROM: Allows athletes to train through a full range of motion with heavier loads.
🏃 Transfer to Sport: Developing greater lower-body strength provides a foundation for sprinting, jumping, acceleration, and change of direction.
THE TAKEAWAY:
The Hatfield variation is a great tool for building lower-body strength while reducing some of the stability demands of traditional squats and split squats.
It’s not about replacing traditional lifts. It’s about having another tool in the toolbox to develop stronger, more powerful athletes.
