How do you do the Belt Squat (Machine)?

Fasten the belt snugly around your waist and attach it to the lever below you. Step onto the platform in your normal squat stance and hold the upright handles for balance. Brace, then push your hips back first and bend your knees to lower under control. Go down until your thighs are parallel to the floor. Drive through your feet to stand tall, extending your hips and legs.

What muscles does the Belt Squat (Machine) work?

Mainly the quads, glutes and adductors, with help from the calves.

What are common Belt Squat (Machine) mistakes?

Bending over at the waist instead of pushing the hips back. Stopping short of thighs parallel.

Belt Squat (Machine): how to do it, form cues and muscles worked

How to do it

Fasten the belt snugly around your waist and attach it to the lever below you.
Step onto the platform in your normal squat stance and hold the upright handles for balance.
Brace, then push your hips back first and bend your knees to lower under control.
Go down until your thighs are parallel to the floor.
Drive through your feet to stand tall, extending your hips and legs.

Key cues

Hips back to start
Knees track the feet
Thighs to parallel
Brace before every rep
Control the way down

Common mistakes

Bending over at the waist instead of pushing the hips back
Stopping short of thighs parallel

Muscles worked

Primary: Quads, glutes and adductors
Secondary: Calves

Equipment

Belt squat machine and weight plates.

References

StrengthLog: Belt Squats
Men's Health: This Squat Variation Takes the Load Off Your Back