Elevate Your Fitness: Exploring the Benefits of Chair Squats

In the world of fitness, there are countless exercises aimed at building strength, improving mobility, and enhancing overall well-being. Among these, chair squats stand out as a versatile and accessible option for individuals of all fitness levels. Whether you’re new to fitness or a seasoned gym-goer, chair squats have many benefits that can help you achieve your fitness goals. 

Understanding Chair Squats: 

Also known as seated squats or box squats, chair squats are a modified version of traditional squats that utilize a chair or bench as a supportive aid. Chair squats reduce the demand for balance and stability, making them suitable for beginners or those with mobility limitations. While they are a modified version, chair squats target the same muscle groups as traditional squats, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and core. 

Benefits of Chair Squats: 

1.    Accessibility: Chair squats are accessible to individuals of all fitness levels, including beginners, seniors, and those with mobility issues. 
2.    Improved Technique: Chair squats are a great tool for learning proper squat technique. By providing a target for squat depth and encouraging proper form, chair squats help individuals develop skills. 
3.    Joint-Friendly: Chair squats can be gentler on joints compared to traditional squats, which makes them suitable for those with knee, hip, or back issues. 
4.    Progressive Overload: These squats can be modified easily to accommodate different fitness levels. As strength and confidence increase, individuals can reduce the height of the chair, increase repetitions, or remove the supportive aid altogether. 

In this short video, Jen Prudhomme, a fitness specialist with The Welliot at River’s Edge, demonstrates chair squats and some modifications. 

Whether you're a beginner seeking a gentle introduction to exercise or a seasoned athlete looking for a new challenge, chair squats can be easily tailored to meet your needs and goals. 

Learn more about The Welliot at River's Edge and other ways to stay healthy.

*Please speak to your primary care provider about exercises that might be right for you.