---
title: "To Squat or Not to Squat?"
entity: "blog"
canonical_url: "https://www.betterknees.com/blog/to-squat-or-not-to-squat"
markdown_url: "https://www.betterknees.com/llms/blog/to-squat-or-not-to-squat"
lastmod: "2017-03-06T23:58:00.000Z"
---

[ read time ~1 minute + VIDEO ]

Many daily activities-- like getting out of a car, or sitting down on a couch-- involve squatting. And when you take a flight of [stairs](http://www.kertzcoaching.com/single-post/2018/09/12/Making-Good-Choices-Stairs-vs-Elevator) instead of using the elevator, you are performing a shallow squat on one leg at a time.

Most people know that they need to train for activities like running or biking. They wouldn’t sign up for a long charity run or ride without preparing for the level of fitness required.

However, many people are hesitant to perform squats-- even though they are unintentionally squatting every day. Some people have had a doctor tell them to avoid squats. Others have experienced pain following squats or they are afraid they might hurt themselves.

By including safe squats in your exercise routine, you will prepare for the activities you enjoy, and decrease the chance of hurting yourself.

This video explains how to determine at home if squats are safe for you:

And this is how I measure my clients' [tolerance](http://www.kertzcoaching.com/single-post/Should-You-Stop-Squatting) for squatting:

For more information on safely strengthening your knees, read [How to Grow Strong Knee Joints](https://www.kertzcoaching.com/post/how-to-grow-strong-knee-joints) and [Can You Rebuild Knee Cartilage?](https://www.kertzcoaching.com/post/can-you-rebuild-knee-cartilage)

For expert guidance in preparing your body for safe squats -- and avoiding pain and injuries-- work with me. To learn if working together is a [good fit](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4u2CjH-F_Q) for you, schedule a [Strategy Session](http://www.kertzcoaching.com/services) , by clicking [here](http://www.kertzcoaching.com/services) .

[Learn more about Laurie Kertz Kelly](/about)

Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any health issue or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare professional. The author of this blog and the website do not bear any responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided in this blog.