Why Deep Squats can Actually Improve Knee Stability

Deep squats are the best squats– they recruit more muscle, burn more calories, and really help to build a strong butt. It used to be thought that doing deep squats is harmful for the front of your knees, but research has shown that isn’t the case. In fact, deeps squats could actually increase knee stability. Studies have shown that the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments– which really help to stabilize the knee joint– have less force through them when the knee is bent more fully.

It is also much more efficient strengthening, in that parallel squats with more weight are less effective than deeper squats with a lighter weight to build up your booty and thighs. Your gluteus maximus is over 25% more engaged with a deep squat than a parallel squat.

That said, if you have a history of knee issues, there is nothing wrong with parallel squats, and speak with your physiotherapist to safely progress to deep squats as your mobility or strength allows.

Check out this video and others on our YouTube Channel, Elevation Physiotherapy & Wellness, for our One Minute Wellness tips on strength, mobility and balance.

Daily squatting is great for your hips, knees… and pelvic floor!

If you’re thinking that you’re doing well because you do squats at the gym, well…good… but that’s not what I mean.  The article below is a great read on how many of us have lost the ability to squat because we just never do it.  I mean the deep butt-almost-to-the ground kind of squat.  In eastern cultures they have toilets that require you to squat over top of them, or they sit on their heels to eat.  We literally never do that here, unless we make a point to do so.

Joints actually like compression, as it helps to lubricate and nourish them.  Squatting squishes the fluid that surrounds the knee, hip and ankle joints around, and the cartilage at these joints like that.  Also when doing a full squat, the pubic bone and tailbone move away from each other, allowing the pelvic floor muscles to have a bit of a stretch.  All good things.

Squatting should not be painful, nor should you feel unbalanced.  If you’re finding the thought of a full squat daunting, get some strategies on how to properly and safely do this movement from your physiotherapist.

Check out the super-interesting article from www.quartzy.qz.com