We all know that the best workout for your lower body will always be the squat. As a quick, simple, and effective move, squats are just about every fitness expert’s secret weapon.
For most people, squats aren’t easy—but, when done right, they really can reshape your butt and thighs in a way that no other exercise move can.
That’s why it’s so important to squat the right way. Unfortunately, even the most devoted fitness fanatics are making one major squat mistake.
For women, especially, the emphasis of the squat should be placed mostly on the glutes and the upper part of the hamstrings, not the quads.
The problem is that most of us simply don’t drop low enough to maximize the squat’s tush-toning benefits.
To really get the workout you want, it’s important to drop your hips slightly lower than parallel, meaning they should end up just below your knees.
Thanks to our natural imbalances—shortened quads, tight hip flexors, etc.—most of us end up feeling like we’re going to fall backward when we try to dip any lower than parallel.
One easy way to gauge whether or not you’re squatting the wrong way is to take a good look at where your weight is shifting when you squat.
If you can clearly feel your heels lifting slightly and your upper body caving in at your knees, then you’re probably subconsciously trying to lighten the resistance in your hamstrings and glutes.
When it comes to working out, you definitely want to exercise the right muscles to achieve the look you’re going for.
Here’s how you should be squatting:
Step 1: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and your toes pointed slightly outward.
Step 2: Make sure to keep the natural curve of your back throughout the entire move.
Step 3: Push your hips back, bend your knees, and slowly lower your body down, with your hips ending up just below your knees.
Step 4: Ease yourself back up by driving through your heels—not your toes.
If you’re having a tough time getting this move down right, try facing the wall as a guide. The goal is to make sure no part of your body touches the wall during the squat, except your toes.
Are you doing squats the right way? Let us know in the comments!
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