February 11, 2024 3 min read
Squat exercises are an important part of any fitness routine, as they target the large muscle groups in your lower body. The squat is a versatile exercise that can be used to build muscle and strength, as well as increase flexibility and improve balance. Squats can also assist with post-workout recovery, helping to reduce soreness and speed up the healing process. In this article, we'll discuss some of the best squat exercises for faster recovery, so you can get back to your regular routines sooner.
Shop The Collection: Squat RacksBefore we dive into the different types of squats that can be used for faster recovery, let's take a look at the two main types of squats: the bodyweight squat and the weighted squat. Bodyweight squats are done without any extra weight, and typically involve standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and performing a full range of motion from standing to crouching. Weighted squats involve adding additional weight in the form of barbells or dumbbells to the exercise.
Shop The Gear: CAP Barbell Deluxe Power Rack, $329.99 CADBoth types of squats have their benefits when it comes to post-workout recovery. Bodyweight squats are great for increasing flexibility and mobility, which can help reduce the risk of injury. Weighted squats, on the other hand, are beneficial for increasing strength and developing muscle mass. So, depending on your goals, either type of squat can be beneficial for faster recovery.
Shop The Collection: KettlebellsNow that we know the two main types of squats, let's talk about some of the best squat exercises for faster recovery. Here are a few of our favorites.
Shop The Gear: MAGMA 9-35 LB Cast Iron Kettlebell Set, $151.99 CADThe goblet squat is one of the most popular squats for post-workout recovery. This exercise involves holding a dumbbell or kettlebell close to your chest as you perform a full range of motion from standing to crouching. The goblet squat is great for increasing hip mobility and strengthening the muscles in your lower body, which can help reduce soreness after a workout.
The reverse lunge is another great option for post-workout recovery. This exercise involves taking a step back with one leg while keeping your torso upright. As you step back, lower your body until your rear knee nearly touches the floor. Then push off your front foot to return to starting position. Reverse lunges are great for improving balance, as well as strengthening the quadriceps and glutes, which can help reduce soreness after a workout.
The sumo squat is a variation of the traditional bodyweight squat. This exercise involves standing with your feet wider than shoulder-width apart and pointing your toes outward. As you lower your body, keep your chest up and make sure your knees stay in line with your toes. Sumo squats are great for targeting the inner thigh muscles, as well as improving hip flexibility and stability, which can help reduce soreness after a workout.
The jump squat is a great way to add a bit of intensity to your post-workout recovery routine. This exercise involves performing a traditional bodyweight squat, but then jumping explosively off the ground as you come up. Jump squats are great for increasing power and muscular endurance, which can help reduce soreness after a workout.
Squat exercises can be a great way to speed up post-workout recovery. From the goblet squat to the jump squat, there are plenty of options for incorporating squats into your routine. Be sure to listen to your body and choose the exercises that are best suited for your fitness level and goals. With consistency and patience, you can use squats to reduce soreness and get back to your regular routines sooner.