The squat will tone your glutes and thighs, sure, "but it's also a great exercise to reinforce proper posture and work the stabilizer muscles in your back and those deep core muscles," said Laura Su, CSCS-NSCM, of LS Training. "When done correctly, it's also a great way to stay mobile and gain mobility."
- Stand with your feet slightly wider than your shoulders, feet parallel or toes slightly turned out.
- Bend your knees, lowering your hips deeply. Bring your thighs parallel to the floor and bend the elbows, keeping weight back in your heels.
- Rise back up, straightening the legs completely, squeezing the glutes at the top of the movement to get the most out of the exercise.
- This counts as one rep.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Kyle Hartman