I love a good squat, I know some of you might think I am weird for announcing that. But there is some logic to my thinking, I promise!

For those who have no idea what a squat is, here is the dictionary definition:

squat

skwɒt/

verb

1. 1.
2. crouch or sit with one’s knees bent and one’s heels close to or touching one’s buttocks or the back of one’s thighs.

Squats will help you is you want to lose weight or gain muscle, as they help you workout most muscles in your body! When you’re looking to burn fat, a squat will exercise as much of your body as it can so it is all getting a workout. Whereas if you are trying to gain muscle, your legs and back are the quickest area to build muscle.

Here are 5 variations of a squat that you can fit into your workout….

Basic Squat

Start with your feet hip-width apart, toes pointing forward, neck straight, and abs tight. Arms out in front of you. Bend your knees and slowly lower yourself down until the tops of your thighs are parallel to the ground. Push your bottom backward, as if you were sitting on a chair. Return to standing

Sumo Squat

Stand with your legs wide, toes pointed slightly outward. Push your hips back and bend your knees, squatting until your thighs are in line with your knees. Return to standing.

Curtsy Squat

Stand with your feet hip width apart and hands on hips. Move your right foot behind your left leg, as far past your left foot as is comfortable. Using a “curtsy” motion, squat down. Keep your weight in the front leg. Return to standing.

Squat Jump

Take your basic squat to the next level, add a jump! Start in the beginning squat position. Lower yourself about half way and then jump up in the air before landing on your feet, standing.

Goblet Squat

Hold a dumbbell or kettlebell to your chest with both hands. Perform a basic squat without jostling or dropping the weight. Keep it close to your chest and steady. Return to standing.