Working sumo squats into your training routine will round out your squat program – not to mention your glutes! 😏 That’s because sumo Squats are great for simultaneously targeting inner thighs, glutes, and thighs.
For dancers, this will directly impact how easily you can get out of the bottom of your plies and, therefore, the power you’ll have access to in jump preps.
So without further ado…
How to Sumo Squat
To set up your sumo squats, stand in a wide second position with your legs turned out slightly. (Think contemporary class- not ballet!) It’s important that you aren’t working in a 180-degree turn-out – give your hips a break for this one!
Then pick up your weight in a goblet hold, tuck your elbows into your chest, and brace your abs. We want to ensure you’re not hyper-extending and your spine is supported.
Start the movement by slightly pushing your hips back to make room in your hips. Then, squat into your deepest range of motion while keeping your chest upright.
Give this form video a peek if you want to double-check your form!
The most important thing to remember is that sumo squats are similar to second position plies, but they are different moves. Again, in a sumo squat the hips will shift slightly backwards before lowering down. Additionally, your tush can absolutely go lower than your hips. The most important thing is to keep your chest lifted and core braced while ensuring that your knees stay stacked over your ankles.
Do you want to try a workout that utilizes Sumo Squats? Give this Full Body Blast a chance at the gym today. But proceed with caution, you might be waddling home!
Want more training tips? Check out these client favorites: Cross Training for Dancers: Mastering the Basics, Training Tip Tuesday: Knee Hovers for Core Strengthening, Training Tip Tuesday: B-stance RDL
