How deep is your squat? Test yourself in four stages
Our bodies are built to squat. In many cultures around the world, squatting is just as common as sitting in a chair. Yet for many of us, it’s a movement we rarely practice. Over time, that lack of use can lead to a gradual loss of mobility and strength; particularly in the hips, knees, and ankles.
While squatting all the way down to the floor isn’t advisable or accessible for everyone, being able to perform a controlled squat to chair height and hold it for several steady breaths is an important indicator of leg and core strength. This ability becomes increasingly important as we age. If you want to continue getting up from low couches or toilets without assistance, maintaining your ability to squat is essential.
In the short video below, we test squatting ability in four stages, each progressively more challenging. These stages can help you identify limitations in the movement of your hips, knees, and ankles, and give you a clearer picture of where you may need more strength or mobility.
This test is not for everyone. If you have knee issues, limit yourself to the first two stages. Always take your own medical history and movement experience into account, and use good judgment when trying movements like these. When in doubt, err on the side of safety.
