This unilateral, weighted squat variation involves holding a weight (dumbbell, kettlebell, or similar) in one hand, mimicking the posture of carrying a suitcase. The exercise primarily focuses on strengthening the lower body while also challenging core stability and balance. For example, an individual might hold a 25-pound dumbbell in their right hand and perform a set of squats, then switch the weight to the left hand for the next set.
Unilateral exercises offer unique advantages over bilateral movements (those performed with both legs or arms simultaneously). They can help address strength imbalances between sides of the body, improve balance and coordination, and enhance core engagement to a greater degree than bilateral squats. This type of training has become increasingly popular in functional fitness programs and athletic conditioning due to its ability to translate to real-world movements and injury prevention. Historically, variations of loaded carries, like those seen in strongman competitions, have highlighted the practical benefits of unilateral strength.
