There’s a reason why everyone – from fitness trainers to enthusiasts and even runway models – swear by doing squats. Regular squatting actually gives you great results – a well shaped butt, toned thighs, calves and glutes. Not to mention, it’s a great stamina-building exercise.
And sure, every now and then, doing the simple squat might feel boring and too unidirectional; especially when you want to achieve more while working out. Hence, these are 8 squat variations to try next time you’re getting down to it.
Trust me when I say you won’t regret the efforts, energy and sweat that come of doing these squat exercises!
1. Curtsy Squat
When it comes to squat variation exercises this one is aimed to work on the glute muscles that help to ensure movement and flexibility in your lower body and strengthens your spine, hip and legs.
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2. Sumo Squat
It works your glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, hip flexors and calves, simultaneously, with special emphasis on the inner thighs.
3. Pistol Squats
It’s the gift that keeps giving; provided you master it properly. It’s great for ensuring balance, focus and strengthens all the muscles in your back, butt and legs. Plus, you’ll never tire of showing off your legs.
4. Chair Squat
This is one of the simplest ways to learn how to do squats and is especially good for beginners. If you’ve been wondering exactly how low is too low with squatting, get yourself a chair that has a seat that perfectly falls in alignment with your hips when you squat as low as you can, without being uncomfortable.
5. Butt-To-Heel Squat
This one is majorly for your derriere. It really opens up your butt and gives it great shape. The Kardashians are sure to be on this bandwagon without us needing any evidence, honestly. But, it requires you to squat low enough to be sitting on your haunches before you stand back up.
6. Wall Squat
The wall squat is ideal for those who don’t work out as often because it’s quick to strengthen your weaker muscles while working towards increasing your flexibility. It’s great for strengthening your legs, as well.
7. Figure Four Squat
Much like the pistol squat, this one is hard to start with. But once you get the hang of it, you’ll be doing yourself a favour. It works to improve your strength and endurance in the quads, glutes, hamstrings, and core.
8. Barbell Squat
This is more of a resistance exercise that you do in order to work on your muscles and strength. The barbell squat can enhance your core strength and improve flexibility, helping you to build powerful thighs, a strong lower back and firm abdominal muscles.