Balancing Board Squats
Balance Board Squats is a challenging exercise that combines balance, strength and core muscles. By performing squats on an unstable surface such as a balance board, you activate the muscles in your legs, hips and core in a more intense way than with traditional squats.
Correct Form and Technique
How to perform Balance Board Squats with good technique:
- Starting position: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart on the balance board. Tighten your core muscles and hold your arms in front of you for balance.
- Squats: Bend your knees slowly and lower your body into a squat position, keeping your back straight and your knees behind your toes. Go as deep as you comfortably can.
- Ascent: Push through your heels to rise back to a standing position, maintaining your balance throughout the movement.
- Breathe: Breathe in when you lower yourself down, and breathe out when you push yourself back up.
Common Errors
Avoid these common mistakes during Balance Board Squats :
- Poor balance: Keep your weight evenly distributed over both feet to prevent the board from tipping too much.
- Knee collapse: Make sure your knees move in line with your toes to avoid injury and misalignment.
- For quick decline: Perform the movement slowly to maximize stability and core activation.
Modifications and Variants
Try these variations to customize or increase the difficulty:
- Beginner level: Use a lower, wider balance board to more easily maintain stability, or perform the squat on a flat surface before introducing the board.
- Advanced level: Hold dumbbells or a kettlebell to increase resistance and further challenge your balance.
Repetitions and Sets
Aim for 3 sets of 10-15 repetitions . The exercise is ideal for strengthening the core and improving balance, and can be performed 2-3 times a week as part of a total body or strength training routine.