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Last updated March 30, 2026
AdductorsCalvesHamstringsQuadricepsAbductorsGlutes
Sumo Squat (Kettlebell)
Hold KB handle with both hands. Wide stance. Squat down until KB almost touches floor.
Quick facts
- Level
- Intermediate
- Mechanic
- Compound
- Force
- Push
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Moderate
- Hypertrophy
- Very High
- Calorie Burn
- Medium-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
Kettlebell
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, with your toes pointed slightly outward.
- Hold a kettlebell with both hands in front of you, letting it hang down between your legs.
- Step 2Position Your Feet
- Ensure your feet are firmly planted on the ground, and your weight is distributed evenly across your feet.
- Engage your core and keep your chest up to maintain good posture.
- Step 3Initiate the Squat
- Begin the movement by bending at the hips and knees, lowering your body down into a squat.
- Keep your back straight and your chest lifted as you descend.
- Step 4Lower Your Body
- Lower yourself until your thighs are parallel to the ground or as low as you can comfortably go.
- Ensure your knees are tracking over your toes and not caving inward.
- Step 5Hold the Position
- Pause briefly at the bottom of the squat, maintaining tension in your legs and core.
- Keep the kettlebell close to your body throughout the movement.
- Step 6Rise Up
- Push through your heels to stand back up, straightening your legs and returning to the starting position.
- Squeeze your glutes at the top of the movement for added engagement.
- Step 7Repeat
- Perform the desired number of repetitions, ensuring to maintain proper form throughout each squat.
- Step 8Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully set the kettlebell down on the ground.
- Stand upright and take a moment to catch your breath before moving on to the next exercise.
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