Which exercise variation was first introduced by John McCollum in a strength and health publication?

The dip belt squat is recognized for its innovation in how it allows individuals to add extra weight to their squat variations without having to balance a barbell across their shoulders. Introduced by John McCollum in a strength and health publication, this exercise enables a unique loading method through a dip belt, which hangs weights from the hips rather than the shoulders. This positioning helps to engage the lower body muscles effectively while reducing stress on the spine, making it beneficial for both strength training and bodybuilding purposes.

The dip belt squat stands out as a versatile movement that accommodates various fitness levels and allows for progressive overload without compromising form. It emphasizes the leg muscles, particularly targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes while providing stability and safety in weight training. This innovation has become a staple in many strength training programs, particularly for athletes who wish to increase their squat strength without the typical constraints of traditional squat variations.