The squat is a popular strength exercise, second only in popularity to the deadlift. However, many adults have trouble performing full range of motion "ass-to-grass" squats because they have tight calves, which limit ankle dorsiflexion.
Not only does this affect our squats, but it also affects lunges, step-ups, pistol squats, and even our forward fold (pike and pancake) flexibility.
Ahhh, the humble squat. It’s one of the most effective moves in the gym; it’s also one of our most primal human movements. Or should I say it was a primal human movement? It's shocking to think that most people spend their day in two positions, standing and sitting. Standing includes walking and running as the range of ankle, knee, and hip flexion is only partial.
Long ago, before we all started sitting in chairs, squatting was our default resting position. For many traditional cultures, this is still the case. Those people who accumulate time in a deep squat on a regular bases experience significantly lower levels of back pain and digestion issues. Deep squats are great for supporting spinal health as well as aiding physiological processes in our bodies, such as digestion and elimination.
