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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.

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. Step 7Repeat
    • Perform the desired number of repetitions, ensuring to maintain proper form throughout each squat.
  8. 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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Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025