5 science-backed reasons to never skip leg day

You have probably seen the jokes around the internet about skipping leg day: the day where you work your lower body and make sure it is as toned and built as the rest of your body. Exercising your lower body is important, but most people actively avoid leg day because of the soreness and inability to walk correctly the following day.

The easiest way to work your lower body is by doing squats. Squats strengthen your glutes, quads, hamstrings, and core while doing wonders for your balance and coordination.

Need more reasons to incorporate squats into your routine? Here are five science-backed reasons to squat more from HuffPost Healthy Living:

1. They’re good for your knees – when done properly, squats can strengthen the leg muscles in the front and back of your thigh that support your knees.
2. You’ll run faster – squats increase your power and help you start strong, conquer hills, master running on uneven terrains, and increase your stride. Squats help develop body awareness posture, core strength, and body alignment which all contributes to good, safe running.
3. Jumpstart your metabolism – Squats help build muscle and muscle burns more calories than fat. Increase your body’s muscle content can go a long way toward reaching your overall fitness goals.
4. Build a stronger core – leg exercises like squats are great for developing a strong core because they work various core muscles at the same time. A strong core is the cornerstone of a strong body and developing one can protect you from an injury, improve your posture, and give you strength.
5. Help manage diabetes and recovery post-stroke – the American Heart Association recommends Americans incorporate strength-training exercises into their routines at least twice a week. Physical activity can reduce your risk of additional heart problems by improving cardiovascular fitness. Diabetics can benefit from strength training because it helps manage insulin resistance.

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