You get a lot of bang for your buck with pistol squats.
Pistols build tremendous strength in your entire lower body (quads, hamstrings, glutes, hip flexors, calves, etc.), as well as your abs and lower back. Practicing pistols will also improve your flexibility, balance, and overall body control.
Due to the intensity of each rep, you don’t need to do a lot of them to feel the effects.
For this reason, pistols are the perfect exercise for anyone who doesn’t have a lot of time to devote to their fitness regimen.
Furthermore, you don’t need a gym, squat rack, or even weights to do pistol squats.
Few exercises can provide similar benefits without the need for anything more than a small amount of floor space.