MUSCLES ENGAGED Shoulders The shoulder is the most movable joint in the body. However, it is an unstable joint because of the range of motion allowed. This instability increases the likelihood of joint injury, often leading to a degenerative process in which tissues break down and no longer function well. Quadriceps The quadriceps (quads) are a group of four muscles on the front of the thigh. They allow your knee to straighten and provide stability when standing. Your quads are the most important muscle group for maintaining the ability to stand and to walk independently. Equipment Used Weight Plate A weight plate is a single solid piece of metal without rotating parts. Weight plates typically range between 1lb and 55lb. A bumper plate is a weight plate that is coated in rubber so that it can be dropped on the floor safely during exercises like the deadlift, snatch and jerk. Exercise Instructions Step 1 Start in a squatted position with your back straight and the weight plate held above your knee. Step 2 Engage your core, twist up and across your body and press the weight plate up at a 45 degree angle. Step 3 Lower the weight back down towards your chest, squat back down to the opposing knee to the starting position. Repeat action if necessary.