Let’s talk about squats. The one exercise that often gets a bad rap. Maybe you’ve heard that squats are bad for your knees. Maybe you’ve convinced yourself that they’re just too hard. Or maybe you simply don’t see the point.
But here’s the truth: Squats are one of the most important movements you can do for your body.
And if you’re avoiding them, you’re missing out on some serious benefits.
Squatting isn’t just about building stronger legs—it’s about building a stronger, healthier, more functional body. Every time you sit down and stand up, pick something up off the floor, or even climb the stairs, you’re using a squatting movement.
✔ Strengthens Your Legs and Glutes – Squats help develop your quads, hamstrings, and glutes, which are essential for balance, mobility, and power.
✔ Protects Your Knees and Joints – Contrary to popular belief, squatting correctly strengthens the knees rather than harms them. Strong leg muscles help stabilize and support the knees, reducing the risk of pain and injury.
✔ Builds Core Strength – Squatting isn’t just a leg exercise—it requires your core to engage to keep your torso upright and balanced. A strong core improves posture, reduces back pain, and enhances overall movement.
✔ Boosts Athletic Performance – Whether you’re a runner, cyclist, or weekend warrior, stronger legs and a more powerful lower body mean better performance in whatever activity you do.
✔ Improves Daily Functionality – If you want to move well as you age, squats are your best friend. They help you maintain independence, making daily activities like getting up from a chair or lifting groceries easier and pain-free.
If you’re experiencing knee pain during squats, the problem isn’t the squat itself—it’s likely weakness, mobility restrictions, or improper form.
The good news? These things can be addressed with proper coaching, gradual progression, and modifications.
If you’re new to squatting or nervous about it, start simple:
✅ Bodyweight squats – Master the movement before adding weight.
✅ Box squats – Use a box or bench to control depth and build confidence.
✅ Goblet squats – Holding a light weight in front helps with balance and posture
✅Single Leg Movements - Pain can often come from a weakness within one side of the body.
✅Isolated Movements - Prioritize movements that activate the hamstrings and glutes to help stabilize joints.
Squatting is one of the best things you can do for your long-term health, strength, and mobility. So stop avoiding them and start embracing them! Your body will thank you.
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