The squat is one of the most popular and recognizable exercises of all time— and is a favorite among fitness professionals and enthusiasts alike for good reason.
Here’s the low-down on the squat: It strengthens several large muscle groups at the same time, optimizing muscle mass development while increasing power, mobility, flexibility and lower body strength.
While the squat has historically been paired with a heavy barbell as part of bodybuilding and weight training programs, it’s just as often used in Pilates and barre classes with lighter weights or resistance bands to achieve a targeted effect.
In this new blog series, we’ll be looking at five common compound exercises that are typically seen at the gym— the squat, lunge, pushup, plank and tricep dip— to see how they can be repositioned and transformed using the tension and resistance of Merrithew® equipment, like the V2 Max™ Reformer and Split-Pedal Stability Chair™.
This is a great way to bring a Pilates-style spin to some common exercises, while achieving the same benefits and potentially adding further challenge. By performing the squat on Pilates equipment, we’ll be able to emphasize form and technique, balance and stability, and mind-body awareness over heavy weights, sets and reps.
For clients who are more advanced, you can easily progress this exercise with more or less tension – depending on their desired focus— altering body or leg position or adding props to challenge them to reach their goals.
So let’s get started with our first video on the squat, featuring Merrithew Master Instructor Trainer Laureen DuBeau.
Find more great videos