squats

keziak1

Is the basic squat always going to be a worthwhile move or do you need to bump up the intensity with dumbbells, barbells, one-legged squats, or something like that?

keziak1

Just overall fitness. In the past when I worked out a lot I used dumbbells and barbells but now that I'm older and more creaky I need to watch it with overloading my knees.

CallMeBacon

I'm not clear on your goal. Tell us what you mean by "overall fitness"? Are you looking to build/maintain muscle? Tone your look? Stay flexible? That can mean a lot of things.

BigAl_2

Adding weight is beneficial to strengthen your muscles, but if it hurts your knees I wouldn't do it. If you feel a basic squat becoming less effective you could up your reps or try different types of squats, squat jumps, etc. to make it more of a challenge. I would also have someone check your form to make sure that isn't the reason your knees hurt.

Sued0nim

When the basic squat isn't enough, add weights, different dynamic movements, keep changing it up

The basic squat is always a worthwhile move but it will get dull, and by building in resistance you'll progress more

47Jacqueline

Before you add anything, make sure you have the right form for the kind of squat you are doing so that you are not overtaxing your knees or back.

keziak1

My achy/creaky knees are from carrying around extra weight and standing most of the day (I work at a stand up computer station). I can do squats and lunges without too much discomfort but wonder if I should plan eventually to up my game by adding weights. By "overall fitness" I mean toning up and building some muscle to help my overall metabolism.

mymodernbabylon

I'm have older creaky knees which have improved by doing squats the right way - I made sure to get my form checked and I go a bit below parallel (which is actually healthier for knees). I use barbells (as I'm doing Stronglifts 5x5) and keep going up in weight (though I'm hitting heavier weights). To build muscle, you will have to be in a calorie surplus.

Cherimoose

It's best to follow a structured program designed by a pro. A good one for your age group is New Rules of Lifting for Life. Or work with a good personal trainer and get a customized routine. If you go that route, google "choosing a personal trainer".

Liftng4Lis

rabbitjb wrote: »

When the basic squat isn't enough, add weights, different dynamic movements, keep changing it up

The basic squat is always a worthwhile move but it will get dull, and by building in resistance you'll progress more

BAM!

keziak1

I've been thinking about seeing a trainer actually. I have lifted a lot in my life but not when in my 50s.

Liftng4Lis

keziak1 wrote: »

I've been thinking about seeing a trainer actually. I have lifted a lot in my life but not when in my 50s.

Well go get it woman!

keziak1

It would be a great New Years job, wouldn't it? Either that or consult a physical therapist, as people here recommended. My issue is carving out the time.

Christine_72

I do squats while I'm watching tv. I lost weight from my already small butt so I'm hoping squatting will help build it up. Not kim kardashian big though!!

Unknown

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keziak1

I talked to two doctors about my knees. One suggested I lose weight. Check. The other ordered an ultrasound to see if I have arthritis but I was clear. At my last physical I didn't think to ask for a referral to a physical therapist. I need to find out if I need a referral for a consultation.

In the past I lost a great deal of weight by doing step aerobics and The Firm tapes. Both are pretty knee-centric (The Firm has you step up and down on a box).