Different Squats You Need To Try
Squats are an effective lower body exercise that can help tone and strengthen your core, quads, and glutes. However, there are many different types of squats with many different variations, all of which serve different purposes. According to Self, squats are often set apart by the types of muscles they target and the degree to which they are targeted and engaged. For instance, some squats engage your glutes more, while others primarily work your quads.
No matter what types of squats you do, however, it is essential to have good form. You need to make sure that you lean or bend the right way so you don't end up hurting yourself. When you perform a squat, you should push your butt back while bending forward from your torso, all while bending your knees as you lower yourself into a sitting position. It's okay if you're unable to lower your butt enough to make your thighs parallel to the floor. Just make sure you keep your back flat throughout the duration of the squat.
How to perform different squat variations
In addition to the standard, traditional squat, there are a number of other variations you can perform to help tone your body. According to Medical News Today, one safe and effective squat you can try is known as the wall squat. Similar to traditional squats, wall squats involve standing your feet shoulder-width apart and lowering yourself down until your thighs are parallel to the ground. As you squat down, your back should remain against the wall while keeping your arms at your sides. Wall squats can help you build muscle endurance and may be easier for people with knee problems.
If you're looking for a more dynamic exercise, however, you can do squat jumps, which are exactly how they sound. The only difference is that you jump up immediately after returning to a standing position. Because of the cardio aspect of jump squats, they may be beneficial to your heart. Other types of effective squat variations include box squats, goblet squats, lateral squats, and pistol squats, all of which help work the muscles in your lower body.