Squats are a compound exercise that engages multiple muscle groups, including the thighs, hips, core, and back. If performed with weights, they can also involve the arms. This exercise primarily strengthens the lower body muscles.
What are the benefits of squat exercises when done daily?
Benefits of Doing Squats Daily
Performing squats regularly offers numerous health and fitness benefits, including:
- Strengthening lower body muscles, such as the thighs, hips, and knees. Squats also engage upper body muscles, including the core and back.
- Activating stabilizer muscles, which help improve balance and overall body stability.
- Enhancing flexibility, particularly in the knees and hips.
- Boosting metabolism, burning calories, and promoting fat loss.
- Improving cardiovascular endurance and muscular strength when performed at high intensity.
- Increasing bone density, which may help reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
- Enhancing athletic performance, particularly for sports that require lower-body strength.
While squats offer significant benefits, improper technique or excessive weight can increase the risk of injury.
Before incorporating squats into your routine, it is crucial to learn the correct form, start with an appropriate weight based on your strength and fitness level, and consider any pre-existing health conditions or injuries before performing weighted squats or other high-impact exercises.
Who Should Avoid Squats?
Although squats are generally safe, some individuals should exercise caution or avoid them altogether, including:
- Those with knee, hip, or lower back injuries.
- Individuals with bone or joint disorders, such as severe arthritis or osteoporosis.
- People with certain medical conditions, such as hernias, uncontrolled hypertension, or heart disease.
- Beginners who have not yet learned proper squat technique.
How to Perform Squats Correctly
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart or slightly wider, with your toes pointing forward or slightly outward.
- Position your hands above your head, in front of your chest, or hold a weight (such as a dumbbell or barbell) with both hands.
- Keep your back straight and your head aligned with your spine.
- Lower your body by bending your knees and hips, as if sitting into a chair. Ensure your knees stay aligned with your toes and do not extend past them.
- Lower yourself until your thighs are parallel to the floor or slightly below.
- Push through your heels to return to the starting position while maintaining good posture.
- Keep your back straight throughout the movement and avoid leaning too far forward.
- Breathe naturally—inhale as you lower yourself and exhale as you rise.
- Perform multiple sets and repetitions based on your fitness level and goals.
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or injuries, or if you are new to strength training, consult a healthcare provider or certified fitness trainer before incorporating squats into your routine.
For professional medical advice or consultation, you can visit a doctor or use the Ai Care application, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.
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- dr. Pandu Lesmana
WebMD (2021). Health Benefits of Squats. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/health-benefits-of-squats
Sara Lindberg (2022). 7 Benefits of Doing Squats and Variations to Try. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/squats-benefits
Karen Asp (2023). How to Do a Squat (and Why They’re So Good for You). Available from: https://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness/how-to-do-a-squat-and-why-theyre-so-good-for-you/