Squats are a great exercise to build into your workout and are a vital part of leg training. They work your quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, calves and core. There are lots of different squat exercises you can do, but we got in touch with one of our Ambassadors, Chloe Barrigan, for some advice as she reveals her killer squats!
Why are squats good for you?
They are a full body compound exercise and work more muscles than other compound movements such as a bench press. Squats build strength, build muscle, burn fat and increase fitness and endurance. With correct form, they also strengthen your bones and joints.
Do squats work?
Yes, they are a full body exercise.
How do you squat with a bar?
Position the bar on your upper back squeezing your traps, as this is where the bar will sit. Your feet need to be at least shoulder width apart, with your toes pointing outwards. Keeping your chest out and your back straight, squat until your hips are below your knees. Push the weight back up through your heels, keeping your knees out. Squeeze your glutes at the top of the movement.
Do squats help tone your abs?
Your abs are constantly engaged throughout the movement as they support the weight and help keep your back straight. Having visible abs comes down to body fat percentage. Squats will definitely build your abdominal muscles but having visible abs is determined by your diet.
How to do a squat exercise at home.
You can do squats anywhere. Depending on what equipment you have will depend on how you do them. You can do body weight squats using the same form but with your arms in front of you or by your sides or you can use a kettle bell or weight plate to make the squats weighted. If you have a barbell and set of weights you can do back squats and front squats just as you would in the gym