Do Hindu Squats - For Explosive Strength, Endurance and Health Hindu squats build endurance and strength in your:
* butt
* thighs
* chest
* calves
* low back
* and lungs.
Squats done with weights often result in knee injuries. This squat, when done properly, can rehabilitate your knees (and ankles) while strengthening your leg muscles.
I had an ACL - main ligament in the knee - replaced a couple years ago and with this in my exercise program I am now able to play basketball with my teenagers (although at 50+ I no longer win very often :)
Other Benefits to this Exercise
Focusing on your breathing and doing high a number of reps will give you the cardio benefits available with Hindu squats.
I always remind my coaching clients to exhale when on the way down and inhale on the way up. Don't try to be dainty or polite, let the air out and breath in with gusto!
Whatever you do, don't make the mistake of holding your breath when you do this (or any other) exercise. In fact, taking your mind away from daily "stuff" and focusing on your breathing will help you get more out of any exercise.
How to do them Properly
I could probably write 2 pages on how to do this exercise and you still might not understand how to perform it properly. I have added a link below that demonstrates how to perform this exercise correctly.
Starting Out
Be sure you do these exercises with the correct form so you don't hurt yourself. It is easy to get a sore lower back doing these with improper posture.
You will also want to start out with a low number of repetitions. "Going for it" or being "macho" will result in very sore muscles that can last a few days. Make it part of your workout regimen for awhile before you really try to crank a bunch out.
If you are unable to do this exercise (as I was when I first started trying them after surgery) you can do wall sits to build your legs up.
Stand with your back to a wall. Bend your knees and slide your back down the wall until your legs are at a 90 degree angle. You will be in the same position as you would be sitting in a chair.
Hold this position for as long as you can and increase the amount of time each day. If you stay with it, you will most likely be able progress to the full Hindu Squat.
If your knees have seen too much abuse to be able to do the squats, you can do the wall sits instead.
