We discussed this last year but it never hurts to be reminded why the squat is such a common exercise and done in so many different fitness programs. Why exactly is squatting so good for us? Here are a few benefits of ‘the squat’.

Squats are a very functional exercise 

When you pick up a box, you should squat. When you change a tyre, you squat. When people in India poop, they squat. We do squats a lot more then we think and it comes back in lots of things we do in our general life.

It’s a full-body-exercise and increases strength in the entire body

While the legs are targeted the most in squats, a lot of other muscles are working as well to keep a good technique. Just think about the core muscles which help keep your upper-body in a neutral position.

Development of connective tissue around the stabilising areas such as knees, ankles and hips

Ligaments and tendons get thicker and stronger around these areas so they are less likely to rupture or tear when they are put under stress. This can play an important roll in staying injury-free while playing high impact sports such as basketball, soccer, rugby, etc.

Shedding some weight and/or burning calories 

If you want to lean up or lose some kilos, squatting will help you. By increasing your muscle mass your body will burn more calories. Every extra 500g of muscle, will make you burn an extra 50 to 70 calories a day. Squatting will accelerate your fat burning process.

The difference between a butt and an ASS 

If you want a nicely toned rear, squat. If you want your jeans to fit, squat. If you want your butt to be proportional to your legs, squat. ?Squatting is a natural functional movement and it will give you a natural functional physique!

Childbirth

Let’s not forget about this one ..oh yes, apparently this is a great way to give birth…squatting tilts the uterus and pelvis forward, placing the baby in proper alignment for birth. It also encourages and strengthens the intensity of contractions, while reliving back pressure. It’s a good idea to practice squatting during pregnancy to help strengthen your legs for squatting during birth.

Some people say they can’t squat. If you don’t have the physical ability to perform a proper squat it is important for your general health and performance to develop the strength, mobility and range of motion necessary to squat.
Last but not least, some people think that squats are bad for your knees. They are completely safe as long as they are performed correctly.