1. Weighted Sumo Squats

To start, a squat is a basic lower-body exercise. Due to the activation of more than one joint and muscle, this exercise is classified as a compound exercise. When factored into a weight training program, squats give you fast gains in size and strength. When incorporating them into your training routine, there are a number of squat variations to consider based on your individualized goals—front and back squats, overhead squat, jump squat, single-leg squat, goblet squat and sumo squat (just to name a few). A sumo squat, also known as a plie squat is a variation on a standard squat and differs in two main ways—foot positioning and muscle emphasis. Read more