TRX Cossack Squat exercise demonstration image

Video Coming Soon

We're working on adding video demonstrations for this exercise.

TRX Cossack Squat

Intermediate
Home Friendly

TRX-assisted lateral single-leg squat variation targeting quads, glutes, and adductors to build lower body strength, hip mobility, and frontal plane stability.

About Exercise

Equipment

Others

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Quads, Glutes

Secondary Muscles

Hamstrings, Calves, Abs

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Strength
Mobility
Stability

Training Style

Calisthenics
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Medium

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Quads

9/10

Vastus Lateralis, Rectus Femoris

Glutes

8/10

Glute Max, Glute Medius

Adductors

7/10

Adductor Longus, Adductor Magnus

Hamstrings

5/10

Biceps Femoris

Calves

4/10

Gastrocnemius

Abs

4/10

Rectus Abdominis

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Anchor TRX straps at mid-calf height. Stand facing anchor with wide stance, holding handles at chest height with arms extended and tension in straps.

  1. Shift weight to one leg and bend knee to lower hips toward heel.
  2. Extend opposite leg straight to side with toes up.
  3. Keep torso upright and core engaged while descending.
  4. Drive through bent leg heel to return to start.
  5. Switch sides for balanced reps.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Chest up
  • Knee tracks over toes
  • Core tight
  • Heel drive
  • Toes up on straight leg

Breathing

Inhale during descent; brace core and exhale during ascent.

Tempo

3-1-1

Range of Motion

Lower until squatting thigh is parallel to floor or deeper if mobility allows; straight leg fully extended laterally.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Secure TRX anchor before starting
  • Avoid if acute hip or knee pain
  • Progress depth gradually
  • Maintain control to prevent imbalance

Spotting

No spotter needed; use TRX for self-assistance and safeties.

Common Mistakes

  • Leaning torso forward
  • Knee caving inward
  • Insufficient depth
  • Rushing the stretch

When to Avoid

  • Acute hip impingement
  • Knee instability
  • Lower back issues

Flexibility Needed

  • Hip abduction and adduction range
  • Ankle dorsiflexion

Build Up First

  • Basic squat form
  • Single-leg balance competency

Also known as

Suspension Cossack Squat, TRX Lateral Squat, Assisted Cossack Squat

Found this helpful?

Share your thoughts or help us improve this guide.

Hero Image

Master your movement.

Experience automatic exercise detection and rep counting - powered by the motion of your Apple Watch.

We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking 'Accept All', you consent to our use of cookies.