However, the exercise technique is different for each movement, making the lunge a more challenging exercise. Lunges vs. Split Squat Technique To the average eye, there isn't much difference between a lunge and a split squat. The split squat and lunge target the same muscles and involve the same joint movements. The split squat is a lunge -- often called a stationary lunge.

The main difference between a lunge and split squat is that a lunge involves a step forward, back or to the side, while the feet stay stationary in a split squat.