Oh, squats. Some hate them, some love them, but nobody can deny their ability to strengthen your legs, core, and mental resolve. The truth is that the world of squats is huge, with dozens of varieties out there, so you should never have to get bored. Here are three types of squats that we recommend trying if you haven’t yet.
Jump Squats
Typically done as a bodyweight exercise without any added resistance, jump squats are great because they’re a plyometric (explosive) exercise that works on your body’s fast-twitch muscles, giving you the ability to move quickly and explosively. Plus, they’re killer cardio in addition to being killer on your legs.
Goblet Squat
If you want to add some weight to your squats but aren’t quite ready to use a barbell for weighted back squats yet, a goblet squat, where you hold a single weight (usually a dumbbell or a kettlebell) in front of your chest, is a great place to start.
Barbell Front Squat
If you’re used to doing barbell back squats and haven’t done front squats yet, get ready for a surprise. Front squats hit your quads and upper back much more than they do your glutes, hips, and lower back. Don’t be shocked if you have to use much less weight to front squat than you’re used to back squatting.
