As most of you will know, the squat is one of the ultimate exercises to get that lovely little peachy bum! Squats are one of my favourite exercise to build good glute and leg muscles (alongside deadlifts- but that’s a whole other story!).
I would like to share with you 4 of my favourite squat variations to make sure you are working your legs and booty to the max!
I would like to share with you 4 of my favourite squat variations to make sure you are working your legs and booty to the max!
Regular Squats
Lets get started with the regular, basic squat. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and your toes pointing slightly outwards. Start the squat by moving your hips backwards and bending your hips and knees to begin to lower yourself. The upper body (torso) and shins should stay vertical throughout the whole process to keep your back aligned to prevent any back injuries.
Sumo Squats
With sumo squats you need to stand with your feet in a wide stance and with the toes turned out. Because of this foot positioning the muscles emphasized are different to the ones emphasized during a regular squat. The sumo puts more emphasis on the inner thigh adductors, which move your legs toward your body. The sumo also uses your core strength for balance. The stronger your core is the better your balance and body alignment is.
Jump Squats
Squat jumps are a great plyometric move that are used a lot in HIIT sessions and cardio as they get your heart pumping pretty quick!
Like the regular squat you keep your feet shoulder width apart and toes facing slightly out. The difference with these is you are jumping when you come back up. When you land just keep repeating for as many reps as you like. Again, make sure form is kept throughout the exercise to avoid any injury.
Like the regular squat you keep your feet shoulder width apart and toes facing slightly out. The difference with these is you are jumping when you come back up. When you land just keep repeating for as many reps as you like. Again, make sure form is kept throughout the exercise to avoid any injury.
Split Squats
Also known as Bulgarian Squats are one of my favourite and least favourite exercises all at the same time! They are a one legged squat with one leg placed behind you on a bench. When doing these make sure the front foot is placed in a position where your knee isn’t going over your toes and your back foot stays below the knee when lowering down.
Photo: Luke Taylor- DoAllThingsWithLove Photography