Are squats part of your fitness routine? If not, it’s time to start! Squats are one of the most effective exercises for toning and tightening your lower body, especially your glutes. They’re worth every bit of effort, and the best part is—you can squeeze them into even the busiest schedules.
In fact, Good Morning America’s meteorologist Ginger Zee revealed that she does squats while brushing her teeth every morning! That’s how easy it is to incorporate this exercise into your day. If you’re ready to add squats to your routine, it’s important to make sure you’re doing them correctly to avoid injury and maximize results.
Why Squats Should Be in Your Routine
Squats target multiple muscles at once, including your glutes, hamstrings, quadriceps, and core. This compound movement strengthens and tones your entire lower body, giving you a firmer, more sculpted backside. Plus, squats help improve your balance and posture by engaging your core and stabilizing muscles.
Tips for Doing a Proper Squat
To get the most out of your squats and avoid injury, follow these key tips:
- Engage Your Core
Pull your abdominal muscles in and tighten your core throughout the movement. This helps protect your lower back and adds more intensity to the workout. - Go Low
The lower you go in your squat, the more muscle fibers you engage. Try to lower your body until your thighs are parallel to the ground, but make sure you’re not going too low that it strains your knees. - Keep Proper Form
Form is everything. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and as you lower into the squat, push your hips back like you’re sitting in a chair. Keep your chest up, back straight, and make sure your knees don’t extend past your toes. Your weight should stay on your heels. - Maintain Control
Avoid rushing through squats. Lower yourself slowly and with control, then rise back up with the same steady pace. This ensures your muscles are fully engaged throughout the movement.
If you’re not sure how to perfect your squat, there are plenty of tutorial videos available that demonstrate proper squat form. Remember, it’s better to start with bodyweight squats and master your technique before adding weights.
Squeeze Squats into Your Routine
No gym? No problem! You can perform squats almost anywhere—whether it’s while brushing your teeth, waiting for the microwave, or during a quick break from work. With no equipment required, squats are one of the most versatile and accessible exercises.
So, what are you waiting for? Drop it like a squat and start toning your lower body today!