Squats are a great exercise for the glutes, hips and thighs and adding a ball to the move can add great support for the back while allowing you to get into perfect squat position to protect the knees. How to do it:
- Stand with about hip or shoulder-width apart and place an exercise ball behind your lower back and against a sturdy wall for support.
- If you choose to hold weights, you can keep them at your sides, hold them just over the shoulders or prop them on the upper thighs.
- Bend the knees and lower into a squat, keeping the knees in line with the toes.
- Lower down as far as you can (but no lower than 90 degrees) and push into the heels to go back to starting position.
- Do 1 to 3 sets of 10 to 16 reps.
Tips:
- Keep your knees in line with your toes.
- Press through the heel of your foot as you push up from the squat.
- Avoid letting the knee bend over the toe.
