The dumbbell squat is a compound exercise that strengths the lower body, including the quads, hips, hamstrings, and glutes. The exercise activates the muscles in your core, and requires core strength and ankle mobility to achieve greater depth. The barbell version tends to allow for greater overload because larger weights can be used, and placing the bar on the front side of your body (front squats) activates your quads more without requiring as much weight.