Anita Norman: SQUATS

Welcome to my, Anita Norman’s new column. I am passionate about helping my clients to achieve the best possible health and fitness levels they can and I know that motivation is a barrier to exercise so I recommend you begin with some basic exercises and to kick off with the most basic of human of actions – sitting down into SQUATS!!!

When we squat we stimulate the whole body, the digestion, the muscles, the nervous system and build some strength and resilience in our lower body. Knowing how to squat properly can save your back, burn some calories and of course you see results faster.

1. To get into the correct position, stand with your feet shoulder apart and look towards a horizon. Push your bottom backwards whilst at the same time bend your knees and push them out to the side slightly. Imagine you’re giving a child a piggy back ride so you’d want your upper body to be tall and upright.

2. As you descend, breathe in and only lower to a comfortable depth which can deepen as you master the above points, exhale as you stand. Take about five seconds to complete one repetition. You could start initially slowly lowering to a chair and even hold onto an upright in front of you to start.

3. Build up from ten to fifteen reps, then try two set with a one minute rest in between. Several times a week will get you steadily accustomed to the benefits of squatting!

N.B. f you have any existing injuries or physical pain you will need to seek further help, stay safe.

You can follow me on Facebook/AnitaNorman and on Twitter @foodcoachpt