Fitness Training

Fitness Training > Workouts > Women > Pregnancy Exercises > Squats

Squat Exercise

Aim

• to strengthen your leg muscles

Equipment Required: none, or use hand weights as an alternative

Technique

1. Stand with your feet about two feet apart and toes turned comfortably out.
   
2. Slowly bend your knees, keeping your back flat.
3. Keep your knees over your toes - don't let them roll in.
   
4. Rise slowly, concentrating on the leg muscles as you push upward.
5. Start with five repetitions, and increase to 20 as you get fitter. To further advance this exercise, stay down for 15 to 30 seconds, then rise up slowly.

Key points to remember

• Keep your heels flat during the entire movement
• Never lower your buttocks past your knees.

Alternatives

• You can hold weights in your hand to increase the intensity of this exercise

Related Pages

• other pregnancy exercises
• women and fitness
• about post-pregnancy exercise
• squat stretch exercise during pregnancy

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