NAME OF EXERCISE: Wide Stance Squat
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Intermediate
EQUIPMENT: Set of dumbbells thatare appropriate for your fitness level
BENEFIT: This exercise works themuscle groups in the front and backupper thighs (quadriceps and hamstrings)as well as the gluts, lowerback and calves.
PROGRESSION: Start off doing oneset of eight to 12 reps without dumbbellsor with a lighter set of weightsthan you use until you learn the formof the exercise. Gradually increase theweight and per form an additional set.
DESCRIPTION OF THE MOVEMENT:
• Stand erect with your feet wider than shoulder width apart,knees slightly bent and toes pointed outward.
• Allow the dumbbells to hang down at your sides(palms facing body).
• Keep your back straight and head up; bend forward slightly at the hips and begin to lower into a squat by bending the knees.
• Stop when your thighs are parallel to the floor.• Slowly stand back up without locking the knees.• Repeat this movement for desired number of repetitions.
WAYNE’S TIP: You should learn how to go down into the squat position low enough. The top of your thighs should be about parallel to the floor or slightly lower, in a well-executed squat. Higher than that, and you’re losing some ofthe benefit to your quads.
”This exercise is being demonstrated by Wayne Matus, owner of Fitness Together Freehold, a private personal training studio. For more information, call 732-431-5555 or visit www.ftfreehold.com.
