Get me bodied:Squats, Squats and More Squats:

Squats, Squats and More Squats: What Squats Can Do For Your Body by DESIREE BROWNE DEC 28, 2011 via frugivoremag.com

When you think squats, you think big men doing deadlifts or women trying to get that track star booty, right? Squats tightening things up, but they’re good to have in a workout routine for other reasons. The main reason you need these in your lineup is squats help improve balance, which you need every day. And because they work your quads and hamstrings, squats help protect your knees from injury.

Squats are about more than your legs; this exercise engages the core, glutes, and outer thighs in addition to your quads and hamstrings. Squats definitely give you the most bang for your buck. Working large muscle groups in the lower body get your whole body ready to be changed by exercise since they require so much energy. And years after your body loses its youthful tightness, the squats you did (and hopefully continue to do) will keep help you with mobility in old age.

Expecting mamas should work a few squats into their exercise routine, too, especially in week 39. Squats help speed along labor because they widen the pelvic opening.

Squats help out with just about everything. Just make sure you’re doing them right. Place your feet hip-width apart, feet parallel and toes facing straight ahead. Keep your torso straight and bend your knees until your thighs are parallel to the floor and then come up slowly. Try starting with one set of 8 to 10 and build from there. Go ahead and get down, girl. It’s good for your health.