Barbell Split Jerk
Description
This exercise involves lifting a barbell from the ground to overhead while splitting the legs and landing in a lunge position. It requires coordination, balance, and strength in the legs, core, and shoulders.
Muscle Group
Equipment Required
Barbell Split Jerk Instructions
- Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, with the barbell resting on your shoulders behind your neck.
- Take a step forward with one foot, and bend both knees to lower your body into a lunge position.
- As you lower your body, press the barbell overhead with your arms fully extended.
- Once you reach the bottom of the lunge, quickly straighten your legs and push off the ground to jump into the air.
- As you jump, switch the position of your feet so that the foot that was in front is now in the back, and vice versa.
- Land softly on the ground with your feet in the new position, and lower the barbell back down to your shoulders.
- Repeat the exercise for the desired number of reps, alternating which foot you step forward with each time.
Barbell Split Jerk Form & Visual
Barbell Split Jerk Benefits
- Improves overall strength and power in the lower body, specifically the quads, glutes, and hamstrings
- Increases stability and balance, as the exercise requires coordination and control
- Enhances shoulder mobility and stability, as the movement involves pressing the barbell overhead
- Can improve athletic performance in sports that require explosive movements, such as basketball or volleyball
- Can be modified for different fitness levels and goals, such as using lighter weights for beginners or adding more weight for advanced lifters
Barbell Split Jerk Muscles Worked
- Quadriceps
- Glutes
- Hamstrings
- Calves
- Core
- Shoulders
- Triceps
Barbell Split Jerk Variations & Alternatives
- Dumbbell Split Jerk
- Kettlebell Split Jerk
- Single Arm Dumbbell Split Jerk
- Single Arm Kettlebell Split Jerk
- Barbell Push Press
- Dumbbell Push Press
- Kettlebell Push Press
- Single Arm Dumbbell Push Press
- Single Arm Kettlebell Push Press