The squat is an exercise that consists of bending the knees, lowering the body while maintaining verticality and then returning to an upright position.
A squat is a physical exercise performed to develop muscles and strengthen the tendons and ligaments of the legs. It also helps tone the glutes and provides benefits to the hips.
The exercise consists of bending the knees and lowering the body, maintaining verticality, and then returning to an upright position. Typically, while performing squats, the person holds some weight with their arms or neck.
Types of squat
There are different types of squats according to the flexion achieved. The deep squat is one that brings the thighs closer to the ground, while the full squat lowers the thighs until they are parallel to the surface. The half squat , on the other hand, consists of performing a less pronounced flexion.
The squat subjects a large number of muscles to intense effort, and this also means that the person must make a significant cardiovascular effort.
To perform squats, it is essential to have the advice or guidance of a professional physical trainer or instructor . Poor technique can lead to injuries to the knees, joints and muscles.
Exercise in weight lifting
It should be noted that the squat is part of the movement that is usually performed for lifting weights . In this way, the individual exerts force with his entire body until he is able to lift the weight above his head.
The effort required to perform squats means that, in some countries, the exercise is a form of punishment used in the army for acts of indiscipline .
The movement performed to lift weights usually includes a squat.
Benefits of squats
* This exercise helps strengthen all the muscles in the body, although at first glance it seems that it only benefits those in the legs. In addition to the calves, hamstrings and quadriceps, squats hide a large number of advantages that have a positive impact on the entire body. So much so, that if done properly, their intensity can cause the body to release growth hormone and testosterone, both of vital importance for muscle development ;
* is in the group of functional exercises, which help us enhance our performance in activities considered daily, something that does not happen with those that focus on the development of a particular muscle. Performing squats makes us stronger, more efficient and improves our mobility, helping us perform better on a daily basis;
* The greater our muscle mass, the more calories we burn per day, and squats are an ideal exercise to achieve this goal, so pursued by those who care about their image. Let's not forget that tortuous diets are not necessary if we dedicate a few hours a day to working our body;
* Squats also serve to strengthen the stabilizing muscles, which are usually the protagonists of many injuries when practicing various sports. The aforementioned benefits, such as increased flexibility and balance, also help prevent injuries;
* Athletic ability also improves thanks to the practice of squats. For example, it is known that it results in greater speed when running, as well as an increase in the maximum height of jumps. This makes it the ideal exercise to accompany all types of professional training ;
* Collaborates in the elimination of waste and helps us better manage the nutrients in our tissues, thanks to enhanced pumping of body fluids. These benefits reach the glands and organs. People with intestinal irregularity problems also perceive important progress in this aspect.