Elite physique athlete Erin Banks believes that hack squats are an essential exercise for building leg muscle. Banks says that hack squats are a great way to better isolate the lower body muscles and focus more on the quads and glutes. This is done with a hack squat machine which provides an angle to emphasis the front of the legs as well as redistribute the weight. <\/p>\n
However, this exercise is not necessary if you are not a pro bodybuilder. According to personal trainers, traditional squats and deadlifts are a great way to work multiple muscle groups at once.[0]<\/a><\/sup> They are considered compound exercises which give you the most bang for your buck. <\/p>\n To do the exercise, start with the barbell on the ground behind your calves.[0]<\/a><\/sup> Grab the bar with a wide grip and knuckles facing up.[0]<\/a><\/sup> With your chest high and arms by your sides, use your feet to extend your legs and raise the weight until it's just under your butt.[0]<\/a><\/sup> Pull the bar down to about chin level, keeping your core tight and feet on the floor.[0]<\/a><\/sup> Slowly return the bar to the starting position with control.[0]<\/a><\/sup> Do not rely on leaning back, your hips, or your legs to propel the motion.[0]<\/a><\/sup> <\/p>\n In conclusion, hack squats are a great way to target the glutes and hamstrings as well as sculpt leg muscle for an elite physique. However, if you are not a pro bodybuilder, regular squats and deadlifts are just as effective.<\/p>\n