It is named after its creator, Sergey Smolov “the Russian Master of Sports”.
The squat routine is a strength program broken down into four phases which last for a total of 13 weeks.
The four phases are: It is considered one of the most difficult squat routines around with recommendations that only elite level athletes use the program due to the high frequency and volume.
Throughout the program, Smolov demands three to four days per week, with some weeks squatting back to back days.
Strength gains have been noted between 50–130 pounds (22–58 kg).