Squats for the Buns, Hips and Thighs

Barbell squats are a more intense version of squats, requiring more work from the largest muscles in the body. Barbell squats are a great addition to a workout, provided you do them correctly. Adding a weight to your shoulders puts much of that load onto your spine as well, so take care when adding weight onto the shoulders. Here's how to do it:

1. Stand with feet hip- or shoulder-width apart.
2. Place the barbell just above the shoulders on the trapezius muscles (i.e., the 'meaty' part of the shoulders). If you feel uncomfortable, you can use a bar pad to protect your back.
3. Bend the knees and lower into a squat. Stop when your knees are at 90-degree angles OR before you lose the natural arch of your back.
4. Contract the glutes and legs while stabilizing your body with a strong torso.
5. Slowly stand back up without locking the knees and repeat for 1-3 sets of 10-16 repetitions.
6. Always keep the knees in line with the toes!

Take care when doing this exercise for the first time. Start with a light weight you can easily handle and practice getting your form perfect before moving on to heavier barbells.