TETSUBarbell Side Split Squat Wide vs Sissy Squat
The Barbell Side Split Squat Wide and the Sissy Squat both train the quads as their primary muscle. The Barbell Side Split Squat Wide uses a barbell while the Sissy Squat is bodyweight-only. Here is how they compare and when to pick each.
Side-by-side comparison
| Barbell Side Split Squat Wide | Sissy Squat | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary muscle | quads | quads |
| Body part | upper legs | upper legs |
| Supporting muscles | glutes, hamstrings and calves | calves and glutes |
| Equipment | barbell | bodyweight |
| Steps in our guide | 7 | 6 |
How each one starts
Barbell Side Split Squat Wide — first steps
- Stand with your feet wider than shoulder-width apart, toes pointing slightly outwards.
- Hold a barbell across your upper back, resting it on your shoulders.
Sissy Squat — first steps
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your toes pointing slightly outward.
- Hold onto a stable object for balance if needed.
Full step-by-step guides are linked below.
Which should you choose?
The Barbell Side Split Squat Wide lets you load the heaviest weights and progress in small, steady jumps. The Sissy Squat needs no equipment and scales through leverage, tempo and reps. If your gym has both options, neither is a wrong choice: pick the one that feels strongest through a full range, and swap after 6 to 8 weeks to keep the quads adapting.
Full form guides
Common questions
Is the Barbell Side Split Squat Wide better than the Sissy Squat?
Neither is universally better — both train the quads as the primary mover. The Barbell Side Split Squat Wide lets you load the heaviest weights and progress in small, steady jumps, while the Sissy Squat needs no equipment and scales through leverage, tempo and reps. Choose based on your equipment and which movement you can progress consistently.
Can I do both the Barbell Side Split Squat Wide and the Sissy Squat in the same program?
Yes, but usually not in the same session — they overlap heavily on the quads. A common setup is one as your main movement and the other on a second training day, or alternating them block by block.
Do the Barbell Side Split Squat Wide and the Sissy Squat work the same muscles?
The primary muscle is the same: the quads. Supporting muscles differ slightly — glutes, hamstrings and calves for the Barbell Side Split Squat Wide versus calves and glutes for the Sissy Squat.
Track it in Tetsu
Tetsu tracks both movements separately, keeps your PRs per exercise, and tells you which one is actually progressing. Free to start.