Knee Pain When Squatting: What Does it Mean?

The squat is undoubtedly an exercise which should form part of your regular workout plan. After all, it is a compound exercise, or in other words, works multiple muscle groups at the same time. These types of exercise are fantastic for building a lean and muscular physique, and are perfect for those who are short on time but want to get in a full body workout. Other compound exercises include the deadlift and the bench press.

How to prevent knee pain when squatting

If you’re suffering from knee pain when squatting, then this can put you off the exercise altogether. Plus, if you continue to perform the exercise while suffering from pain, then you will aggravate the issue and probably do more harm than good. Knee pain is something that many people suffer from at some point in their lives. But, if you’re hoping to get a toned physique then regular workouts are exactly what is needed.

If you do suffer from knee pain when exercising, then it would be beneficial to use a knee brace for squats. This will help to alleviate the pain so that you are able to perform the move more comfortably. Over time, you’ll be able to build strength in your knees and might eventually be able to perform the squat pain-free.

However, if things fail to improve and you’re still telling yourself ‘my knee hurts when I squat’, then it might just be time to look at alternative exercise. So, see below for alternatives.

Squat alternatives for bad knees

As was mentioned earlier, the deadlift is another compound exercise just like the squat. It’s an exercise which works multiple muscle groups, and is fantastic for building lower body strength. It works the lower back predominantly, but also works the mid back, traps, forearms, calves, and core. So, you really do get many benefits from performing this exercise regularly.

Another alternative exercise to the squat is glute bridges. This is an exercise which, as the name suggests, targets the glute area. This is an exercise which also packs a punch as you’ll also be working the hamstrings, core, hip, and lower back too!

Finally, there is the reverse lunge. This is a great exercise for toning your legs and glutes, and places much less stress on the knees compared to regular lunges. You can begin using body weight and then gradually add weight using dumbbells or a barbell.

Each of these exercises are great alternative exercises to the squat. When performed in conjunction with one another on a regular basis, this will allow you to build muscle in your lower body. Soon enough, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the lean, defined physique that you desire!