What It Is
A squat is a compound exercise movement that works major muscles of the legs and core as you sit (back) and stand utilizing the joints of the legs and hips.
Why It’s Important
It Promotes Joint Mobility
As you perform a squat your hip and knee joints flex and then extend as you stand. By working these two ranges of motion across multiple joints you will increase circulation, extend flexibility, and allow for your body to operate more efficiently.
It’s A Low Impact Calorie Torcher
The dynamic movement of a squat engages large muscle groups of your legs; which in turn require more calories to perform. You also are able to exhaust these muscles without jumping, hoping, or running, thus decreasing the impact on your joints.
How To Do It
To perform a bodyweight counterweight squat you will only need yourself and no other equipment. Hold arms straight out in front of you; feet shoulder width or slightly outside shoulder width.
Feet facing forward and keep weight on your heels as you make the movement. Drop your hips back and down as you bend at the knees. Keep core braced throughout the entire exercise and stand back up tall to start position.
Modify It
Perform a get-up by using a flat stable surface at a height that allows you to work proper flexion through your hips as you sit down and takes weight off the bottom portion of your squat as you work on form and function.
Power It Up
Squat Infographic:
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Sole Shaping Blog is written by a nationally certified personal trainer, however, the topics and information given might not be specific for your health and wellness needs. The blog is intended for informational purposes only and not direct health advice. Consult with a doctor before beginning an exercise program or changing your nutritional diet. The blog is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge, but omissions, errors or mistakes may occur.
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