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Squats are bad for your knees!

Posted Nov 29 2008 12:27pm
You wish this was true, then you wouldn't have to do them! Sorry to burst your bubble, but let me just tell you that this is far from the case.


What else has kept females from touching public restroom toilet seats for decades?


I am not exactly sure where this urban exercise myth originated, but do not leave one of the primal movement patterns out of your exercise program. Everyone squats, everyone. You do it everyday: from sitting down into your desk chair, standing up from the sofa, when getting your clothing out of the dryer, picking up something from the floor, and who could forget droppin' it like its hot when dancing. That's a squat, sista!

Squatting probably got a bad rap because it was the easiest scape goat for knee pain and discomfort which occurs from a variety of other reasons (not all listed):

  • improper technique and form

  • structural issues with the feet, ankle, or hip

  • non-supportive footwear

  • muscular imbalances

  • Poor core stability/strength

Here are a few points on proper squat technique and form:



1. equal and greater than 90 degree angles at the hip and knee are thought to be a 'safer' range of motion



2. Keep your feet hip width apart (find your front hip bones) and toes parallel




3. Start the movement at the hips (not the knee), by sitting your toosh backwards



4. Keep your weight into the heels when lowering or raising up from a squat

5. Be conscious to avoid your knees coming together or bowing outward throughout the motion (your knee should aim towards the 2 nd and 3rd toe)


6. Don't lock out your knees, keep a micro bend at the top.


These tips are only a start for knee pain free squatting. Seek out a qualified fitness/rehabilitation/medical professional for assistance with the other potential reasons for your knee pain.

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