Squats are some of the best types of exercise you can do for your lower body. They increase strength in multiple muscle groups, improve balance, and boost flexibility. But they can be one of the trickiest when it comes to perfecting your form.

Thankfully, there are a few tips that can help you find that ideal squat form. So the next time you step up to the squat rack or Smith machine at one of your favorite El Dorado Hills gyms, use these four tips to ensure your form is picture-perfect.

Keep Your Back Straight

One of the most essential pieces of squat technique is a straight back. If you bend or arch your back, not only are you using the wrong muscles, but you increase your chance of injury and can’t lift nearly as much weight.

So, when you put the bar on your shoulders and lower down, focus on keeping your back straight. All of the bending should happen at your hips, knees, and ankles. To help with this, engage your core at the start and don’t release that tension until the end of the rep.

Tilt Your Head Up

When you’re squatting, you should be able to see your surroundings at one of the best gyms in Tracy, not just the floor.

This means keeping your head up through the entire lift. It’s easy to want to lower your head as you “dig in” to the squat, but keeping your chin high helps your back stay straight from your tailbone all the way to your neck. Plus, it helps you check on your form in the mirror as you squat up and down.

Flair Out Your Knees

As your butt and hips move down in the squat, it’s important to push your knees forward.

By keeping your knees stationary or pulling them back, you don’t give yourself enough balance, and your quads don’t come into play as much as they should.

Instead, as you lower the bar, flair your knees out and forward—not too much—so they start to move over your toes. This establishes good balance and keeps your back, hips, and legs properly aligned.

Keep Your Core Tight

Keeping your core tight and engaged through the whole lift is an essential piece to the squat puzzle.

Core strength keeps the rest of your body locked into place and lets your quads, hamstrings, glutes, and calves do the work.

Take a deep breath as you load the weight onto your shoulders. Then, use your abs to lock in the rest of your body and keep the movement focused on your lower body. Keep your core tight from the top of the lift to the bottom and back again. Then, you can release it for a moment before getting ready for the next rep.

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No matter your fitness journey, In-Shape Health Clubs can help you reach your destination. From bodybuilders and marathon runners to yogis and fitness newcomers, In-Shape offers the equipment, amenities, and studio fitness classes you need to achieve your goals. As one of the best gyms in Turlock, Victorville, and other California cities have to offer, In-Shape will quickly become a part of your daily routine. Whether you want to sign up for one of the best pickleball tournaments California has to offer or cool down after an intense workout in the pool, you’ve got the best support possible in your pursuit of a healthier lifestyle. With an In-Shape membership, you’re ready to step into your next level of fitness. 

Now that you have the perfect squat form put it to work at an In-Shape location at https://www.inshape.com/

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