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Last updated March 5, 2026
AdductorsCalvesHamstringsQuadricepsAbductorsGlutes
Sumo Squat (Barbell)
Take a very wide stance with toes pointing out. Squat down with the barbell on your back. Keep your knees pushing out over your toes.
Quick facts
- Level
- Intermediate
- Mechanic
- Compound
- Force
- Push
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Moderate
- Hypertrophy
- Very High
- Calorie Burn
- High
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
Quads
Secondary
Inner Thigh (large)
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
Barbell
Movement pattern
Bilateral
Posture
Standing
Tracking parameters
repsweight
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Stand with your feet wider than shoulder-width apart, toes pointed slightly outward.
- Hold a barbell with both hands, using an overhand grip, and rest it on your upper thighs.
- Step 2Position the Barbell
- Position the barbell so that it rests comfortably on your thighs.
- Ensure your grip is shoulder-width apart and your elbows are slightly bent.
- Step 3Engage Your Core
- Engage your core muscles to stabilize your body throughout the movement.
- Keep your chest up and shoulders back to maintain good posture.
- Step 4Lower Your Body
- Begin the squat by bending at the hips and knees, lowering your body down.
- Keep your knees in line with your toes and push your hips back as if sitting in a chair.
- Step 5Reach the Bottom Position
- Lower yourself until your thighs are parallel to the ground or as low as your flexibility allows.
- Ensure that your back remains straight and your chest is lifted.
- Step 6Push Back Up
- Press through your heels to push your body back up to the starting position.
- Squeeze your glutes at the top of the movement and ensure your knees do not cave inward.
- Step 7Repeat
- Repeat the squat for the desired number of repetitions, maintaining proper form throughout.
- Step 8Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully lower the barbell back to your thighs.
- Stand tall and ensure your posture is straight before setting the barbell down safely.
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