Daily Fit 06/12/2019: Are You Squatting Right?

are you squatting right?

Flickr / ThoroughlyReviewed

Workout Tip Of The Day: Squatting with the right form can keep you from getting injured and it ensures that you’re targeting the right muscles. Here’s how to squat correctly.

If you’re looking for a low-impact, full-body workout that specifically targets your hips, glutes, quads, hamstrings and core, squats are the way to go. Squatting may seem self-explanatory, but even experienced gym-goers often make mistakes when doing this exercise. Here are a few tips to help you perfect your squat form and reap the most benefits from this exercise.

1. Keep your back flat throughout the entire movement.

When you squat, you want to avoid looking like a turtle — rounding your spine while you perform a squat will put unnecessary stress on your lower back which can lead to future injuries. Instead, focus on engaging your core muscles, which will help you keep a flat back throughout the entire movement. A good cue is to think of maintaining a big chest and pulling your elbows back while squatting.

2. Look directly in front of you while you squat.

Although some people claim that looking up while you squat is better for your spine, this can actually strain your neck and put unnecessary pressure on your upper back. Try instead to look directly in front of you throughout the entire movement. A good way to do this is to stand in front of a mirror — if you’re locking eyes with yourself while you squat you’re doing it right.

3. Squat low, but not too low.

Make sure that you’re actually engaging your quadriceps and glutes when you squat by lowering yourself just below the point where your thighs are parallel to the ground, meaning slightly lower than a 90-degree position. But, unlike what you may have heard, dropping it low below this point isn’t actually necessary and can become dangerous when you’re lifting heavy weights because it makes it harder to lift yourself back up (remember, you’re not at a club). Click through for more tips that’ll help you squat like a pro. [The Active Times]

Did You Know?

Want to live a healthier lifestyle? Earn more money and make your own schedule by signing up for the Amazon Flex program, which pays between $18 and $25 per hour. Sign up for our Side Hustle by Swirled newsletter for more money-making tips, plus inspirational stories every week?

Our Favorite Buys Of The Day

Dollar Shave Club: Help dad look sharp this Father’s Day with Dollar Shave Club. They have a ton of great grooming products for every thermostat-monitoring, cargo shorts-wearing, punny dad out there. Because you’re a loyal Daily Fit reader, Dollar Shave Club is offering you their risk-free starter sets for just $5. Claim yours today!

Ibotta: Ibotta is transforming the shopping experience by making it easy for consumers to earn REAL cash back on everyday purchases through a simple app. Users can save at their local grocery store and at leading retailers such as Amazon, eBay and more.

Father’s Day Gifts From Amazon: As Father’s Day approaches, finding dad the perfect gift can be daunting. If your dad is like most dads, his idea of a gracious gift is a fresh pack of socks. Practical, but not very memorable. Skip the struggle and buy dad one of these dependable presents instead.

Swirled may be compensated when users click on the affiliate links in this newsletter. Products are in stock at the time of publication.​

Hot Topics In Health Today

Forgiveness Reduces Blood Pressure, Improves Physiological Health, Studies Claim — Medical Daily

Read This Before You Try Intermittent Fasting — Science Alert

The Negative Health Effects Of Too Much Noise Go Well Beyond Hearing, According To Scientists — The Washington Post

New Study Links Sleeping With Lights On To Weight Gain In Women — CNN

Don’t Miss

The Perfect Spotify Playlists For Every Type Of Workout

5 Fun Ways To Work Out With Your Dog

“You know you’re hooked when taking a rest day takes more discipline than working out.”

Sign up for Daily Fit by Swirled, our newsletter featuring a wellness tip of the day and must-read health news from around the web! You’ll be one step closer to living a healthy, balanced life.