Squatting does your body good

Over the years, “exercise science” has doled out its share of old wives’ tales. From time to time, we’ll spend some time looking at these myths and call “BS” at some of these outrageous claims.  We’ll start by defending the beloved SQUAT.

How many of you have heard (or said) that ’squatting is bad for your knees?’ While there is some validity to this for those recovering from a recent surgery or injury, the rest of us benefit greatly by squatting with proper form.  The danger that the mad scientists are talking about comes in when people squat 1/4 or 1/2 the depth required and never go below parallel.  You’ve all seen it:  the muscle-bound-singlet-wearing tool who loads 600lbs on a bar, unracks it, does an imperceptible dip, re-racks, and flexes for the mirror.  Don’t be that guy.  What he’s doing is creating an imbalance in his legs.  His quads develop more than his gluts and hamstrings.  This imbalance is what leads to all the knee and back injuries the quacks warn you about.

Squatting loads bones in a way that they are meant to be loaded.  Your body then responds by producing more calcium, thus making the bones stronger.  More calcium means greater bone density, which is why weightlifters have greatest bone density of all athletes (besides gymnasts).   Translation: strong bones=less chance of osteoporosis, ladies.

More importantly, squatting gives you a fantastic booty.   CrossFitters around the globe showcase a variety of different athletic body types.  The one thing that they DO have in common though, is the perfectly shaped derriere from all the squatting we do.

WOD 08.31.09

Thrusters 3×3
Fran
21-15-9
Thrusters
Pull Ups

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