Weight-Plate Side-Squat Twist
Squat, twist, and tone! This full-body exercise builds strength and improves core stability.
The Weight-Plate Side-Squat Twist is a compound exercise that mainly works the core, with help from the glutes & hips and quads. You'll need: weight plates.

Required Equipment

Weight-Plate Side-Squat Twist Muscles Worked
Primary
Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Obliques
Secondary
Glutes (gluteus maximus); Quads (quadriceps femoris)
Weight-Plate Side-Squat Twist Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Weight-Plate Side-Squat Twist
Weighted Plate Side Twist from Squat
Starting Position:
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Hold the weight plate with both hands in front of your chest, keeping your elbows slightly bent.
Squat Down:
Push your hips back and bend your knees to lower your body into a squat.
Keep your chest up and your back straight.
Lower yourself until your thighs are at least parallel to the ground or as far as you can comfortably go.
Twisting Movement:
From the squat position, engage your core and twist your torso to the right.
Keep the weight plate close to your chest as you twist.
Ensure that your hips remain stable, and only your upper body is rotating.
Return to Center:
Slowly return to the starting squat position, bringing your torso back to center.
Twist to the Left:
Repeat the twisting movement, this time turning your torso to the left.
Again, keep the weight plate close to your chest and maintain a stable lower body.
Complete the Set:
Continue to alternate twists from the squat for the desired number of repetitions or time.
Tips
Focus on your form rather than the weight. It’s better to start lighter and ensure you are doing the movement correctly.
Keep your core engaged throughout the exercise for stability.
Make sure your knees don’t extend past your toes during the squat to protect your joints.
Weight-Plate Side-Squat Twist FAQs
What muscles does the Weight-Plate Side-Squat Twist work?
The Weight-Plate Side-Squat Twist mainly works the core, with help from the glutes & hips and quads. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and obliques.
What equipment do you need for the Weight-Plate Side-Squat Twist?
Weight plates.
Is the Weight-Plate Side-Squat Twist a compound exercise?
Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.
What workout day should the Weight-Plate Side-Squat Twist go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Weight-Plate Side-Squat Twist variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Balance-Board Standing Twist, Weight-Plate Wood Chopper, Torso Slight-Squat Twist and Down Squat Press Twist.
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