Exercise guide
Band Single Leg Split Squat With The Ring
- Intermediate
- Compound
- Rep-based
- Lower legs
- Upper legs
This variation combines the instability of a suspension ring with the accommodating resistance of a band to maximize glute and quad activation. It is highly effective for developing unilateral strength, balance, and hip stability through a deep range of motion.
Reviewed by the Crucible team · Updated June 2026
Muscles worked
Setup
- Adjust the suspension ring to mid-calf height and stand facing away from the anchor point.
- Place a resistance band under the mid-foot of your front leg and loop the other end over your shoulders (or hold it at chest height).
- Place the top of your rear foot into the ring and find your balance on the standing leg.
- Step forward with the front foot until you are in a wide split stance with the rear leg slightly extended.
How to do it
- Inhale and lower your hips by bending the front knee, allowing the rear leg to move back naturally with the ring.
- Descend until your front thigh is at least parallel to the floor, maintaining a slight forward torso lean to emphasize the glutes.
- Exhale and drive through the mid-foot of the front leg to return to the starting position, resisting the band's tension.
- Maintain a controlled 3-0-1-0 tempo: 3 seconds to lower, no pause at the bottom, and 1 second to drive up.
Form checklist
- Keep the front knee tracked over the middle of the foot, avoiding internal collapse.
- Maintain a neutral spine and braced core to prevent the lower back from arching.
- Keep your hips square to the front and level throughout the entire movement.
- Ensure the front heel stays firmly planted on the floor at all times.
Pro tips
- Focus on 'pushing the floor away' with your front foot to maximize glute and quad recruitment.
- Fix your gaze on a stationary point 5-10 feet in front of you to help stabilize your balance against the ring's movement.
- Keep the majority of your weight (about 80%) on the front leg; the rear leg in the ring is primarily for balance.
Make it harder
- Add a 2-second pause at the bottom of the movement to eliminate momentum and increase time under tension.
- Increase the band tension or hold a dumbbell in the hand opposite the working leg (contralateral load) to further challenge stability.
Frequently asked
- What muscles does the band single leg split squat with the ring work?
- The band single leg split squat with the ring primarily targets the glutes, hamstrings, and quadriceps, and also works the abs and obliques as secondary muscles.
- What equipment do you need for the band single leg split squat with the ring?
- The band single leg split squat with the ring uses resistance band.
- Is the band single leg split squat with the ring good for beginners?
- The band single leg split squat with the ring is rated intermediate. Build a base with simpler variations first, then progress to it with light load and strict form.
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