Exercise library · Legs
Dumbbell Thruster.
Squat-to-press combo that trains the legs and shoulders in one explosive movement.
Also known as: DB Thruster, Squat to Press
IntermediateDumbbells
The numbers
Sets
3–5
Reps
5–10
Rest
90–180 s
The play-by-play
How to do it.
- Step 01
Hold dumbbells at the shoulders
- Step 02
Descend into a full front squat
- Step 03
Drive up explosively through the legs
- Step 04
Use the momentum to press the bells overhead
- Step 05
Lock out the arms at the top
- Step 06
Lower the bells back to the shoulders and repeat
What separates good from great
Pro cues.
Use the leg drive to start the press
Keep the core braced throughout
Move smoothly between the squat and press
Common questions
Questions, answered.
- What is the Dumbbell Thruster?
- Squat-to-press combo that trains the legs and shoulders in one explosive movement.
- What muscles does the Dumbbell Thruster work?
- The Dumbbell Thruster primarily works your quadriceps and glutes. It also recruits your front delts and triceps as secondary movers.
- What equipment do I need for the Dumbbell Thruster?
- You need dumbbells to perform the Dumbbell Thruster.
- How many sets and reps should I do for the Dumbbell Thruster?
- A typical prescription for the Dumbbell Thruster is 3–5 sets of 5–10 reps. Rest about 90–180 seconds between sets.
- Is the Dumbbell Thruster good for beginners?
- The Dumbbell Thruster is best suited to intermediate lifters. Beginners can do it with light weight and close attention to form before progressing.
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