Squats are such a fundamental move in both the gym and in life! Being able to get into a great Squat and lift weight while squatting is fantastic for overall fitness, strength and of course longevity. Here are 3 quick tips to get you ready to perform well in Squats!
- Activate before Squatting: Jumping right into weights without any form of activation is going to hold you back. Take some time to get the glutes, hamstrings and quads firing and mobile before beginning. Some light foam rolling, banded Squats and dynamic warmups (high knees, butt kicks, etc.) are great for getting the body ready for weight.
- Light weight: Some people like to jump right into the heavy stuff, when you should take some time at the lighter weights to help prepare. I like to use an empty barbell to get me down into a Squat and then move around a bit. Get the ankles, hips and knees loose and ready. You can also dial in technique when it is lighter, ensuring that you move at your best once you pile on weight to the barbell
- Stretch! This is the part people skip over. Once you finish with your workout, do some light stretching to help release tension and open your body back up. Finishing a crushing Squat workout then jumping into your car will only make the body stiffen up over time. Then it becomes harder to Squat over the days, months and years! Use stretches like Pigeon, Elbow to Ankle and Saddle to finish your WOD and feel great the next day!
Using these tips, you should feel great going into your next workout of light, heavy or fast Squats! You may even feel the benefits in other aspects of life 😉
Happy Lifting!
