How to improve your squats

While there’s a lot to dive into with how to do a proper squat, the benefits of learning how to squat correctly are important. Squats will not only help you get stronger, but they also represent a movement that you use during everyday life.

The benefits of squats

The squat is considered a compound movement, meaning it works for multiple muscle groups. The primary muscles involved in the movement are your quadriceps (the muscles in the front of your thighs) and your glutes (your butt muscles). Squats also work the muscles around the knee, which helps build strength and prevent injury, and your abdominals are the stabilizers. 

5 steps to master your squats

Before you want to add variations, you will want to ensure that you have the basics solidified. Follow these steps to guarantee a solid foundation for your squats.

  1. First assume the squat stance, keeping your glutes and core engaged, shift your weight back into your heels. 

  2. While driving your feet into the ground, keep your ribcage hugged, roll your shoulders back and keep your gaze forward. 

  3. While keeping your chest lifted, bend your knees until you reach a parallel position ensuring your knees are in line with your toes. 

  4. Once in the parallel position, push into your heels to stand up, engage your pelvic floor and squeeze your butt at the top.

  5. Remember to always keep your navel plugged into your spine to ensure core stability while moving throughout these positions. 

Demonstration video

Good luck!

Squatting is a great way to build lower body strength. There are countless variations for all sorts of limitations, progressions, and goals. Think about those tips next time we squat together.

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