Doing squats with weights comes with a long list of health benefits and can really shake up your workout routine. It’s also much more challenging, and here are a few things you should keep in mind before deciding to add some weights to your squat routine.
Proper Form
There’s no point in doing squats with weights if you don’t have a proper form. If you think you’re not doing something correctly, it’s always a good idea to check in with a fitness trainer. If your form is not good, adding weights to the mix is counterproductive because it can lead to pain and injuries.
Equipment Choice
You can do squats with dumbbells, kettlebells, or a barbell, and your choice makes all the difference. Dumbbells are the best possible choice for beginners, while kettlebells are best suited for certain variations, such as goblet squats. Effectively using barbells requires a higher level of fitness, and you should take some time to hone your skills before working out with them.
Right Reason
You shouldn’t do squats with weights just because it’s trendy and everyone else is doing it. The main reason for adding equipment to your routine is to get stronger, build muscle, and work out your core, quads, and glutes, so make sure these are your long-term goals.