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Slide 4 of 5

Instead of Jump Squats, Try Squat Pulses

"Squat pulses are low-impact aerobic movements that help you sculpt and tone your thighs, calves, and glutes," Barnes explained. Parsons agreed: "This version of squats is more stabilizing for those with a knee injury than a jump squat or squat with a calf raise," she said.

Barnes noted that jump squats can create "extreme pressure and discomfort in your joints," while this type of squat "allows you to steadily build in your intensity and burn calories with both feet planted safely beneath you."

  • Begin in a classic squat, with your feet hip-distance apart and weight in your heels, your knees bent, and your hips sitting back as low as you can. Make sure your shoulders remain directly over your hips and your knees stacked over your toes.
  • Holding this position, pulse up and down, moving about an inch in either direction.
  • Each pulse counts as one rep.
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