Squats
Are one of the most effective exercises for working the muscles of the legs and buttocks. They are also an excellent way to improve stability and balance.
What are their benefits?
They are one of the most popular exercises in strength training as they have many health and wellness benefits. As physiotherapists, we know that they can be especially beneficial for our patients and that is why we recommend this exercise regularly.
Firstly, they help to strengthen the leg muscles, especially the quadriceps, glutes and hamstrings. This not only improves strength in the lower limbs, but can also improve posture and stability.
In addition, squats can help prevent injuries. By strengthening the leg muscles, it improves knee stability and reduces the risk of movement and exercise-related injuries.
They are also a functional exercise, meaning they mimic movements we do in our daily lives. This can help improve the ability to perform everyday tasks, such as getting up from a chair or climbing stairs, which is especially beneficial for older patients or those with mobility problems.
It is important to remember that squats must be performed correctly to avoid injury and maximise the benefits. As physiotherapists, we can guide our patients in the correct technique and adapt the exercise according to individual needs.
In summary, squats are a highly effective exercise for improving strength, stability and daily function. As professionals, it is important that we recommend this exercise to our patients and provide proper guidance to ensure that it is performed safely and effectively.
What are the contraindications?
Although they are a highly effective exercise for improving strength and lower limb function, it is important to note that they are not suitable for all patients. As physiotherapists, it is our duty to assess each patient’s physical condition and determine if they are a good option for them. Below are some common contraindications to be aware of:
The first contraindication is lower back injuries as squats can put significant pressure on the lower back, which can be detrimental to patients who have lower back injuries. It is important to carefully assess the cause of the injury before recommending squats.
In addition, squats can place significant stress on the knees, which can be harmful to patients who have knee injuries or who have had knee surgery. It is important to carefully assess the cause of the injury before recommending them.
On the other hand, patients with joint pain should exercise with caution, as exercise can worsen pain and inflammation. It is important to carefully assess the cause of the pain before recommending them.
Finally, patients who have limited mobility or who have trouble maintaining balance may have difficulty performing squats effectively and safely.
As physiotherapists, it is important to consider these contraindications when assessing the suitability of squats for our patients. If they are not a good option, we may recommend other exercises that are more appropriate and effective for your individual condition.
What are Bulgarian squats?
Bulgarian squats are a squat variation in which one of the feet is placed on an elevated object, such as a platform or bench.
This variation focuses primarily on the legs and glutes and can be an excellent way to improve your patients’ strength, stability and mobility.
Thanks to all their benefits, they have become increasingly popular in the world of fitness and strength training. However, it is important to keep in mind that Bulgarian squats are a demanding exercise, so it is essential to start with proper weight and technique.
Differences between Bulgarian squats and normal squats
This variation offers a number of benefits and differences from regular squats. In this section, we will take a closer look at Bulgarian squats and how they differ from standard squats.
Firstly, unlike normal squats, Bulgarian squats are performed with only one foot on an elevated surface, allowing you to focus on the unilateral strength of each leg separately. This also allows Bulgarian pull-ups to have a wider range of motion than normal pull-ups, as the back knee is lowered until the back knee touches the ground.
On the other hand, Bulgarian pull-ups require greater stability and balance due to the fact that you are supported on one leg. This helps to develop stability and balance, and strengthen the stabilising muscles of the hips and core.
In addition, Bulgarian pull-ups put less stress on the spine than normal pull-ups, as you maintain a more upright posture.
In summary, Bulgarian squats are an excellent variation of squats that offer a number of benefits and differences from regular squats. By incorporating Bulgarian squats into your training routine, you can develop strength and power in a more focused and effective way on each leg separately, improve stability and balance, and vary your training to prevent plateauing and maintain motivation.
Conclusion
Bulgarian and regular squats can be an excellent way to improve your patients’ strength, stability and mobility. When prescribing these exercises, make sure your patients have good technique and are ready to perform them safely and effectively. Remember that technique is critical in both variations and that you must take into account any injury or pain your patients may have while performing these exercises. With proper technique and gradual progression, squats can be an excellent addition to any training and physiotherapy programme.