sumo stance

Definition

A wide-stance deadlift variation with hands inside the legs, reducing range of motion and emphasizing the hips. Named for its resemblance to sumo wrestling positions, though competitive sumo wrestlers probably lift more than you.

Example Usage

I switched to sumo stance for deadlifts and immediately added 50 pounds to my max.

Origin

Powerlifting terminology from the mid-20th century, named for the wide stance's resemblance to sumo wrestling positions.

Fun Fact

Sumo vs. conventional deadlift preference often depends on limb length ratios and hip mobility—it's biomechanics, not cheating.

Source: Powerlifting technique terminology

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