T that you can perform in the gym because it ’ s actually a motor pattern you use every day –
JERRAM NEWTON Jerram is the AdrenalineHIT Operations Manager at the YMCA . He has been working in the health and fitness industry for the past 10 years in both community leisure and commercial fitness environments . Jerram ’ s passion for health and wellness stems from an active childhood growing up in country NSW , where sports and running around with your mates were an everyday thing .
THREE REASONS TO GET SQUATTING
Are squats just ‘ leg ’ exercises ? The truth is , they actually offer benefits for your entire body , especially your core . YMCA AdrenalineHIT Operations Manager Jerram Newton explains .
he squat is one of the most functional movements
T that you can perform in the gym because it ’ s actually a motor pattern you use every day –
whether it ’ s getting up or down from a chair , picking up the kids or simply getting out of bed .
Squats are straightforward to perform , require no equipment and can be done just about anywhere . Very few basic compound movements require the same degree of muscle recruitment than the squat . Interestingly , in the training world the squat can come in many variations from complex Olympic weightlifting movements to basic body weight squats .
Here are three great reasons why you should be adding squats to your regular training regime :
• Squats can help you move safely and more easily through everyday life : The squat is considered a ‘ functional ’ movement because it is used in everyday life . You squat to get on and off the toilet , in and out of bed , and to safely pick up anything from the floor . This is why regularly training this movement can benefit your everyday life , especially as you get older .
• Squats can help reduce your body fat : Squatting elicits a greater muscle response than other compound movements . Increasing the strength of these large muscle groups will enhance your metabolic rate , which helps to burn more body fat .
• Squatting improves your sports performance : Stronger legs will help you to run faster , jump higher and perform better during long distance cardiovascular exercise .
The bottom line is , as a human being you are built to move through this most fundamental movement . So do it ! See how you can incorporate squatting into your strength and conditioning or gym program . Or if you are already squatting , then keep up the great work !
AUTUMN 2017 YMCA HEALTHY LIVING MAGAZINE 9