It’s probably fair to say that most of us know that sitting down on our bums all day isn’t great for our body’s however we all need to earn a living and it just so happens that this living requires us to be sat at a desk for large parts of the day. For most of us anyway.

So, what can we do to combat the negative effects sitting down all day has on our bodies? Well, the answer is lots. And before I show you a super-effective movement lets quickly why sitting sucks.

So why is sitting down so bad? Let’s assess our body’s when we are sat down and if you aren’t sitting now have a look around and assess others who might be sitting. Limp right? Shoulders rounded? Spines flexed? Almost weightless and slumped. Seats, sofas and chairs made for comfort a deceptive comfort because I know that living with tightness and back pain isn’t comfortable.

Our muscles completely switch off, muscles around our hips the muscles supporting our trunk our spine collapsing our shoulders almost in front of our ears. We just aren’t built to spend hours in a 90-degree position with our muscles shutting off leading to severe tightness and chronic weakness.

Your ability to move, walk and run can become inhibited. Hip mobility and function become severely impaired which will affect balance and stability and the health of your spine Your abdominals that play a crucial role in keeping you upright become weak and shut off. Enough already…the list is honestly endless, and you should by not get the point.

So, what is the Squat Stretch and why should you be doing it?

Humans for thousands of years have been able to squat and crouch down without an issue. The ability to be able to squat low in my opinion is a good indicator of not just your flexibility, mobility but also your health. I cannot stress enough the importance of being able to squat down low with your feet flat. If it feels restricted, uncomfortable and you can’t get low start practicing.

Tip #1 – Squat and hold in the lowest position you can get into. Hold for as long as you can. Start with maybe 30 seconds holds and then on 1-minute holds. Repeat 3 to 4 times each day.

Tip #2 – Hang and hold. Fully straighten your legs and hang similar to of you are trying to touch your toes. Keeps your legs locked out, take deep purposeful breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. Hold for 1 minute and repeat 3 to 4 times.

Tip #3 – Try the Squat Stretch. Don’t worry so much about the range and where you can and can’t get to. You might not be able to fully straighten your legs and you might not be able to squat down. Work your range and I assure you it’ll improve if your practice daily.

Give your body space and freedom it deserves and if you have any questions please do get in touch.

Stretch. It feels good. Your body will thank you.