To squat or not to squat..
Front squats vs. Back Squats
Squats should be a staple in any lifter’s routine looking to build muscle and strength or just enhance quality of life.
What are the benefits of squatting:
Squat exercises are great for a total lower body workout. They work most of the major muscle groups of the butt, hips and thighs. Squats are also a versatile exercise. They can be done in almost any location.
Tones the Legs; Squat exercises thoroughly engage the quadriceps, hamstrings and calf muscles, which helps to tone and strengthen the legs.
Lifts the Butt; Doing squats gives the glutes a powerful workout, helping to tighten and lift the butt. To increase this effect, give your glutes an extra squeeze when returning to a standing position.
Strengthens the Core; Squats engage the core muscles of the body. Abdominal and back muscles are needed to keep balance during the movement. The result is a tighter, flatter abdomen and a stronger lower back. Make a conscious effort to hold in your abdominal muscles while squatting down to increase this effect.
Front squat vs. Back squat
Front squats put the bar in front of the body, while back squat puts the barbell on the upper back. Front squats put a greater emphasis on your quadriceps( front of the legs) while back squats require more from your glutes
(butt). Because front squats force you to stand taller, they require more hip flexibility than back squats.
Back squats place more emphasis on the glutes and hamstrings(back of the legs) Since the weight is loaded almost directly down the spine, they also place compressive forces on the vertebra meaning they force the core to do more work to protect the lower back.
How to Do a Squat Exercise
-Stand with your feet hip width apart.
-Tighten and pull in your abdominal muscles.
-Lower your body as if you were going to sit in a chair. Keep the motion slow.
-Stop when your legs are parallel to the floor.
-Stay in this position for a few seconds.
-Now press down onto your heels and slowly rise back up to a standing position.
-Repeat the exercise for a total of 2 to 3 sets of 8 to 12 reps.
-Be sure to rest for 60 to 90 seconds between sets.
Hope this is helpful, I know as women we want the benefits of looking good and feeling good. Squats encompass the whole body and your mind pushing you beyond limits. You can get amazing results that can last years of benefit. I was a huge squatter in my day, I stopped squatting for two years and still reaping the benefits of toned legs and butt. Squats can be your best friend, Enjoy!!
To your happy and healthy bootie, squat away...
Angie Castillo
Life Style Coaching
Intuitive Life Coach
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