BACK SQUAT

YOU'LL NEED: A barbell and lifting mat MUSCLES EXERCISED: Inner and lower thighs Click on the image to see a quicktime video clip of the exercise.

Exercise Technique

1. Stand with feet about 18-22 inches apart, back of the feet touching the bar. Bend down and grip the bar with palms back. The hands and arms a little outside the legs. Thighs are parallel to the floor, the back is straight, and the eyes are looking forward.
2. Straightening the legs, keep your arms straight as the barbell is lifted from the floor.
3. As the legs straighten, the hips come forward, intiating an upright postion of the body. The bar should stay close to the body as you ascend and end up against the upper thighs and lower gluteals.
4. Use the reverse motion to place the weight back on the floor in a slow controlled manner.
5. Wearing a weight belt on heavier sets and max attempts is recommended. Also holding your breath during the entire movement should be avoided, air should be inhaled during the ascent.