One on One Fitness

Do your squats look like a hip hinge?

This common form breakdown in the squat is excessive flexion of the hips. While the length of your femur and torso play a role in what feels more natural during the squat, excessive hip hinge during can limit the benefit of the exercise and potentially lead to injury.

A simple tool like a heel lift or wedge board promotes a more effective movement pattern by shifting the center of gravity and forcing a more vertical motion.

The next time you perform a squat, try a heel lift! The difference in your range of motion and effect on the target muscles might surprise you.