Squats are an important part of any workout, not only building leg muscles but also quadriceps, hamstrings and calves. They also provide an anabolic aspect to your workout, improving overall muscle building.
If you have realized how important squats are in your workout, you may be surprised to learn that adding box squats can not only bring added benefits to your workout routine but it could also improve your squatting technique overall.
What Are Box Squats?
A box squat is a weight-lifting technique with a box or bench placed behind you. The goal is to aim for a box height for a parallel squat, but you can train with a box that is higher or lower depending on your training. With the weight across your shoulders, you lower yourself to a sitting position until you are seated on the box, pause and then lift yourself up again without bouncing.
Benefits of Box Squats
Box squats offer significant benefits in a workout. The biggest benefit is that it can actually improve your squatting technique. Often, people squat by initiating the knees and not the hips which can overload the quads and increasing the chance of injury. By forcing yourself to “sit back” on the bench, you put more pressure on your hips, relieving the pressure on your knees.
With a box squat, you also tend to take a wider than shoulder stance while holding the bar lower and your knees over your toes. This further increases the stress on glutes, hamstrings and your lower back.
Pausing on the box also forces you to rise from a dead stop rather than “bouncing,” increasing posterior chain power.
Athletes also tend to cheat depth in squats as their weight level rises so a box squat keeps you from doing that. Box squats force you to tighten your body in order to come off the box, getting more benefits from the lift.
How to Box Squat
Begin a box squat by standing in a power rack with the box behind you. Step under the bar and place it across your shoulders then squeeze your shoulder blades together, rotating your elbows forward as if you were bending the bar across your shoulders. Create a tight arch in your lower back, lift the bar and step back, your head facing forward. Push your knees and butt out, then start to lower your body. Sit back until your butt is seated on the bench, shins perpendicular to the ground. Pause, relax your hip flexors and then, with your weight on your heels, push your feet and knees out, pushing upward. Lead the movement with our head, continuing up until you reach your starting position.
Box squats can increase the value of your leg workout but can also improve your squat technique overall. The key is to learn how to do the box squat correctly and to continue using free squatting in order to get a good overall workout. Learn more workout techniques by subscribing to my YouTube channel.
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What are The Benefits Of Deadlifts?
Did you know that deadlifts were once called “Romanian Deadlifts” and were used to test a person’s strength and character? Today, they remain a top choice for athletes, bodybuilders, and even celebrities like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who credit them for building power and muscle.
This article delves beyond the hype to explore the what are the benefits of doing deadlifts, revealing the multifaceted benefits this exercise offers for both men and women, making it a valuable addition to any fitness routine.
Key Takeaways
- Deadlifts are a compound exercise that targets multiple muscle groups, offering a wide range of benefits beyond just building strength.
- They can improve athletic performance, increase bone density, enhance posture and core strength, boost metabolism, and foster mental toughness.
- Deadlifts are suitable for all fitness levels with various modifications available for beginners or those with limitations.
- Prioritizing proper form and safety is crucial to reap the benefits and avoid injuries.
Comparison Table: Conventional Deadlift vs. Sumo Deadlift
Feature Conventional Deadlift Sumo Deadlift Stance Shoulder-width apart Wider than shoulder-width Grip Overhand grip Double overhand or mixed grip Primary Muscle Groups Hamstrings, glutes, lower back Glutes, hamstrings, quads Benefits Overall strength development, improved core stability Emphasizes glute activation, suitable for individuals with limited hip mobility What are Deadlifts and How to Do Them Right:
Clear explanation: Deadlifts are a compound exercise that involves lifting a barbell off the ground from a standing position, engaging multiple muscle groups. They primarily target the hamstrings, glutes, and lower back, but also activate core muscles, shoulders, and forearms.
Step-by-step guide:
- Set up: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, core engaged, and back straight. The barbell should be positioned in front of your shins, with hands gripping the bar slightly outside shoulder-width.
- Hinge at the hips: Keeping your back straight and core engaged, push your hips back as if you’re about to sit down. Lower the bar down your shins, maintaining a straight bar path close to your body.
- Lift with your legs: Once you feel a stretch in your hamstrings, drive through your heels to lift the bar back up to the starting position, keeping your core engaged and back straight.
- Squeeze your glutes: At the top of the movement, squeeze your glutes to fully extend your hips.
Addressing misconceptions: Deadlifts are often incorrectly labeled as dangerous for your back. However, when performed with proper form and appropriate weight, they can be a safe and effective exercise.
Remember:
- Start with lighter weights to perfect your form before increasing the load.
- Don’t round your back at any point during the movement.
- Seek guidance from a certified trainer if you’re unsure about proper form or have any pre-existing injuries.
Beyond Strength: Unveiling the Multifaceted Benefits of Deadlifts
While building strength is undeniably a key benefit of deadlifts, their true power lies in their diverse impact on overall fitness and well-being. Let’s explore some lesser-known advantages that go beyond the weight room:
- Enhanced Athletic Performance: Deadlifts are a staple exercise for athletes across various disciplines. They improve power, agility, and explosiveness by strengthening the posterior chain (glutes, hamstrings, lower back), which plays a crucial role in activities like jumping, sprinting, and changing direction quickly. A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that athletes who incorporated deadlifts into their training program significantly improved their vertical jump height compared to those who didn’t.
- Increased Bone Density: Deadlifts, when performed with proper form, can stimulate bone growth and increase bone mineral density (BMD) in the lower back, hips, and spine. This is particularly beneficial for women as they are more susceptible to osteoporosis later in life. A study published in the Bone Journal showed that women who participated in a deadlift program for 12 weeks experienced significant improvements in lumbar spine BMD compared to a control group.
- Improved Posture and Core Strength: Deadlifts engage a multitude of muscle groups, including the core muscles responsible for stabilizing your spine and maintaining proper posture. By strengthening these muscles, deadlifts can help improve your posture, reducing hunching and slouching, and leading to better overall body alignment. A 2018 study in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine found that deadlift training led to significant improvements in both postural awareness and core strength in healthy adults.
- Boosted Metabolism and Calorie Burning: Deadlifts are a compound exercise that activates multiple muscle groups simultaneously, leading to a higher metabolic demand compared to isolation exercises. This increased metabolic activity translates to burning more calories, even at rest, which can be beneficial for weight management and overall fitness goals. A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that deadlifts resulted in a significantly higher post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) compared to other exercises, indicating a greater calorie burn even after the workout is complete.
- Mental Toughness and Confidence: Mastering a challenging exercise like the deadlift can be incredibly rewarding, fostering a sense of accomplishment and boosting confidence in your physical capabilities. This mental toughness translates to other areas of life, teaching perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges.
Remember: These benefits are not just for men! Deadlifts offer a wide range of advantages for benefits of deadlifts for females as well. Numerous studies and personal experiences of female athletes and fitness enthusiasts highlight the positive impact of deadlifts on strength, athletic performance, and overall well-being.
what muscles do deadlifts target
- Gluteus Maximus: (Butt)
- Quadriceps: (Upper Front legs)
- Adductor Magnus: (Inner Thigh)
- Soleus: (Smaller part of your calf muscle)
- Hamstrings: (Upper back of legs)
- Gastrocnemius: (bigger part of your calf muscle)
- Erector Spinae: (lower back)
- Trapezius, upper: (upper neck muscles)
- Trapezius, middle: (middle neck muscles)
- Levator Scapulae: (the muscle from your jaw to your shoulder)
- Rhomboids: ( upper inner back muscles right below your neck)
- Rectus Abdominis: (abs)
- Obliques: (side abs)
Variations for All Levels
The beauty of deadlifts lies in their versatility. While the conventional deadlift is a fantastic exercise, there are numerous variations that cater to different fitness levels, goals, and individual needs. Here are a few popular variations:
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Romanian Deadlifts (RDLs):
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- Purpose: Primarily target the hamstrings and glutes, emphasizing hip hinge movement.
- Benefits: Excellent for developing hamstring flexibility and building lower body strength without straining the lower back. Suitable for beginners or those working on proper form.
- Progression: Start with bodyweight or light dumbbells and gradually increase the weight as your form and hamstring flexibility improve.
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Sumo Deadlifts:
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- Purpose: Targets the glutes and hamstrings while placing less stress on the lower back and core due to a wider stance.
- Benefits: Ideal for individuals with limited hip mobility or those looking to emphasize glute activation.
- Progression: Similar to conventional deadlifts, begin with lighter weights and focus on proper form before increasing the load.
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Trap Bar Deadlifts:
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- Purpose: Offers a more neutral grip position, potentially reducing strain on the wrists and forearms compared to the conventional deadlift.
- Benefits: Suitable for individuals with wrist or forearm limitations or those who prefer a more comfortable grip.
- Progression: Follow the same progression principles as the conventional deadlift, starting with light weights and gradually increasing the load as your strength improves.
Remember: These are just a few examples, and numerous other deadlift variations exist. It’s crucial to choose variations that align with your individual goals and limitations. Always prioritize proper form over weight, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a certified trainer if needed.
As you progress in your deadlift journey, you can safely transition between variations once you’ve mastered the basic movement patterns. Start with bodyweight or lighter weights for any new variation, focusing on proper form and technique before gradually increasing the load. Remember, consistency and proper form are key to unlocking the full potential of deadlifts and reaping their numerous benefits.
Safety First: Essential Precautions and Tips
Unlocking the full potential of deadlifts hinges on prioritizing proper form and safety. Remember, a well-executed deadlift with lighter weights is far more beneficial than attempting heavier weights with compromised form.
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Mastering the Form is Paramount:
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- Visuals are Key: Consider incorporating instructional videos or detailed images demonstrating proper form throughout the deadlift movement. This can significantly improve understanding and execution.
Seek Guidance: If you’re unsure about any aspect of the movement, don’t hesitate to consult a certified personal trainer or coach. They can provide personalized guidance and ensure you’re performing the exercise safely and effectively.
- Visuals are Key: Consider incorporating instructional videos or detailed images demonstrating proper form throughout the deadlift movement. This can significantly improve understanding and execution.
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Warm-up and Cool-down are Non-Negotiable:
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- Dynamic Warm-up: Before diving into deadlifts, engage in a dynamic warm-up routine that includes activities like light cardio, lunges, arm circles, and dynamic stretches. This prepares your body for movement and increases blood flow to your muscles, reducing the risk of injury.
- Static Cool-down: After your deadlift workout, don’t neglect a static cool-down routine. This includes stretches that target the major muscle groups involved in the exercise, such as your hamstrings, glutes, lower back, and core. This helps improve flexibility, reduce muscle soreness, and promote recovery.
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3. Listen to Your Body:
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- Start Light, Go Slow: Always begin with lighter weights, even if it feels easier than you anticipated. This allows you to focus on proper form and technique before progressively increasing the weight as your strength and confidence improve.
- Prioritize Form Over Weight: It’s tempting to push yourself and lift heavier weights, but remember, proper form is paramount. Lifting heavier weights with compromised form significantly increases the risk of injury. Don’t be afraid to reduce the weight if necessary to maintain perfect form throughout the movement.
- Respect Your Limits: Pay close attention to your body’s signals. If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop the exercise immediately. Consult a healthcare professional if the pain persists.
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Seek Professional Guidance:
- Pre-existing Injuries: If you have any pre-existing injuries or limitations that might affect your ability to perform deadlifts safely, it’s crucial to consult a certified personal trainer or physical therapist. They can assess your individual needs and recommend modifications or alternative exercises that are safe and effective for you.
By prioritizing safety and incorporating these essential tips into your deadlift routine, you can ensure a rewarding and injury-free experience while reaping the numerous benefits this powerful exercise offers.
6 FAQs About Deadlifts
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Are deadlifts dangerous?
- Deadlifts can be safe when performed with proper form and appropriate weight. However, improper form can increase the risk of injury. It’s crucial to prioritize form and seek guidance from a certified trainer if needed.
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Can women benefit from deadlifts?
- Absolutely! Deadlifts offer numerous benefits for women, including improved strength, athletic performance, bone density, and overall fitness.
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What are some common deadlift mistakes?
- Rounding the back, lifting with the legs instead of the hips, and using excessive weight are common mistakes that can lead to injury.
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How often should I do deadlifts?
- The frequency depends on your individual fitness level and goals. Beginners can start with once or twice a week, while experienced individuals can perform them more frequently.
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What are some good deadlift alternatives?
- If deadlifts are not suitable for you due to limitations or injuries, consider alternative exercises like Romanian deadlifts, lunges, or squats.
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What are the best deadlift variations for beginners?
- Bodyweight deadlifts, Romanian deadlifts with light dumbbells, and sumo deadlifts with lighter weights are excellent options for beginners to learn proper form and build confidence.
Conclusion: Unleash Your Potential with Deadlifts
Deadlifts have rightfully earned their reputation as a powerhouse exercise. They go beyond building raw strength, offering a multitude of benefits that can significantly enhance your overall fitness and well-being. From improved athletic performance and increased bone density to enhanced posture, boosted metabolism, and mental toughness, deadlifts offer a well-rounded package for individuals of all fitness levels.
Ready to incorporate deadlifts into your workout routine? Even beginners can reap the rewards! Start with bodyweight or lighter weights, prioritize proper form above all else, and gradually increase the load as your strength and confidence improve. Remember, numerous variations exist, so don’t hesitate to explore and find the variation that best suits your needs and limitations.
Embrace the challenge of deadlifts. They may not be easy, but the journey of mastering this exercise and unlocking its potential is an empowering and rewarding experience. So, unleash your inner champion, embrace the power of deadlifts, and watch your fitness journey soar to new heights!
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The Best Leg Exercises For Growth
What’s a winning physique? It’s surely not a dude with bulging shoulders and pecs strutting around on chicken legs. Look, a lot of guys avoid leg day, but you’re doing yourself a disservice. Stop running away. Smash your goals.
Here’s exercises that are proven to help you get massive gains that are also safe and smart. Let’s check them out.How To Work The Legs
Before we get into the exercises, though, let’s get a general understanding of working the lower body. You need proper form. Work on proper form first, and you will have better results from the beginning. Lastly, don’t focus too much on higher repetitions. Work within the 80-85% 1RM range for the most growth.
Recommended Leg Exercises For Growth
With some basic information out of the way, it’s time to introduce the exercises.
Barbell Back Squat
Note: Best performed inside a rack for safety.
3-4 sets x 8-10 reps
Rest: 3 minutes
How to do:
Start with your feet under the bar, hands in position. Get under the bar. Adjust your grip if you need to. Keep the chest up and the elbows down. Squat up to unrack the bar and keep your core engaged, back long. As you continue to perform a rep, keep your heels under your shoulders with the toes out on a slight diagonal. Get your backside as low to the ground as comfortable for your joints. To get up from the squat, drive through glute and hamstring muscles, squeezing and pressing.Barbell Front Squat
3-4 sets x 8-10 reps
Rest: 3 minutes
How to do: Bring your arms up under the bar. Keep the elbows high, upper arms parallel to the floor. The bar should rest atop the deltoids when your arms are crossed. From there, lift the bar from the rack by pushing with your legs up and keeping the torso straight.
Step away from the rack and take a squat position—feet under shoulders, toes pointed outward. This is the starting position.
Lower down slowly. Maintain a straight posture as the knees bend. Eventually, the thighs should be below parallel with the floor. As you start to lift from the bottom position, exhale and push the floor through the middle of the foot while engaging the quads.
Repeat.Barbell Lunge
3-4 sets x 8-10 reps on both sides
Rest: 3 minutes
How to do: Once you have unracked the bar, step forward with either your right or left leg. Maintain balance and squat down. Think about lowering the hips, not bending the knees in order to keep your form. The torso remains straight. Knees bend to 90-degrees. Don’t allow the front knee to go beyond the toes. Once you reach the lowest point, power back up through the feet. Repeat this movement 9 more times on one leg then switch.Leg Press Machine
3-4 sets x 8-10 reps
Rest: 3 minutes
How to do: Start by sitting at the machine with your back firm against the seat. Your feet are flat on the foot plate, slightly wider than hip-width apart. Grab the handles on either side of the seat. From there, push the plate away by extending through the knees and hips. Turn the locking safety handle so you can move freely. Then, keep pushing through the feet until you’re extended. Bring the plate back slowly. Never fully lock the knees as your work. Repeat the motion.Leg Curl Machine
3-4 sets x 8-10 reps
Rest: 3 minutes
How to do: Once you’ve readied the machine for use, place the back of the lower leg on the padded lever. Second the lap pad against your quads, above the knees. Grasp the side handles. Make sure you start with the legs fully straight out behind you. Now, exhale, pulling the machine lever back as you bend the knees and lift your heels towards your back. Hold the contraction for a second. Slowly lower back to starting position. Repeat.Standing Calf Raise
3 sets x 8-10 reps
Rest: 3 minutes
How to do: [Use dumbbells or the machine] On a workout step or platform, stand with your feet under your shoulders. The balls of your feet are on the top half of the platform/step, and the heels are hanging off. Push up, extend the knees, and keep the torso erect. Never lock the knees as you rise. Continue raising the heels as you breathe then lower slowly to starting position, feeling the calf release and stretch. Repeat.Romanian Deadlift
3-4 sets x 8-10 reps
Rest: 3 minutes
How to do: Hold a bar at hip level with palms facing down. Shoulders are back, the back is arched, and the knees are slightly bent. This is where you start. From there, lower the bar down by moving the butt back. Keep the bar close to the body as you move. When done correctly, the maximum range is just below the knee. At the bottom position, squeeze through the back body and drive the hips forward to return to standing. Repeat.
That’s it! You don’t need anything else—just consistency and determination.
You can’t spell legendary without “leg day.” With these exercises, you can grow your legs and get that bodybuilding physique and strength you’ve been working hard to achieve.
Enjoyed this article? For more tips and tricks and information on how to train effectively, check out my YouTube channel and hit that subscribe button. -
Looking and Feeling Your Best: Practical Ways to Build a Life That Feels Good
Feeling your best is a whole-person project. It involves your body, your mind, your habits, and—often overlooked—your sense of direction. This article is for people who want to feel better day to day, not by chasing perfection, but by stacking small, meaningful choices that add up to real well-being.
A quick snapshot before we dive in
Feeling great doesn’t come from one dramatic change. It comes from consistent movement, intentional rest, nourishing food, mental stimulation, and inspiration that keeps you grounded when motivation dips. The goal is not optimization—it’s alignment.
Move Your Body, Without Making It a Chore
Exercise is one of the most reliable ways to improve mood, energy, and confidence. That doesn’t mean you need a strict routine or a gym membership. Walking, swimming, cycling, dancing in your living room—movement counts when it gets your blood flowing.
The real benefit comes from consistency. Regular movement supports better sleep, reduces stress hormones, and helps you feel more at home in your body. If you dread your workouts, they won’t stick. Choose movement that feels satisfying, even playful.
Eat in a Way That Supports Energy (Not Guilt)
Eating well isn’t about restriction; it’s about support. Meals that include whole foods—vegetables, fruits, proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates—tend to stabilize energy and mood throughout the day.
A simple way to think about it:
- Eat regularly to avoid energy crashes
- Drink enough water
- Add nourishing foods before worrying about cutting anything out
Food should help you feel steady, not stressed.
A Simple Self-Care Reset Checklist
Self-care doesn’t need to be elaborate. Start with basics that actually restore you.
Try this weekly reset:
- ☐ Get 7–9 hours of sleep at least a few nights this week
- ☐ Spend 10 minutes outside, no phone
- ☐ Do one thing purely for enjoyment
- ☐ Tidy one small space (desk, bag, nightstand)
- ☐ Check in with how you’re feeling—without fixing it
These small actions create breathing room in your life.
Feed Your Mind with New Interests
Starting a new hobby can be surprisingly powerful. Learning something—whether it’s painting, gardening, cooking, or learning a language—adds texture to your days and shifts your identity from “busy” to “growing.”
Hobbies also reduce rumination. When your hands and mind are engaged, stress has less room to spiral.
Inspiration You Can Carry with You
Mental well-being isn’t just about quieting your mind; it’s also about filling it with perspectives that help you reframe challenges. Listening to podcasts during a walk or commute can be an easy way to stay motivated and emotionally balanced. Stories of people navigating change, learning new skills, and redefining success often spark practical mindset shifts.
For example, the University of Phoenix alumni podcast shares real stories and insights from alumni who used learning to change their lives and careers. Hearing how others worked through uncertainty and made intentional choices can help you stay focused and optimistic about your own path, especially when you’re considering what’s next for you.
How Daily Habits Affect How You Feel (At a Glance)
Habit Area
What Helps
How It Feels Over Time
Movement
Walking, stretching, light workouts
More energy, better mood
Nutrition
Balanced meals, hydration
Steadier focus, fewer crashes
Rest
Sleep, downtime
Emotional resilience
Learning
Hobbies, reading, podcasts
Motivation, confidence
Connection
Conversations, community
A Helpful Resource to Support Everyday Well-Being
If you’re looking for grounded, practical guidance on mental and emotional health, Mindful.org offers a wide range of accessible articles and exercises focused on mindfulness, stress reduction, and intentional living. The content is science-informed without being overwhelming, and many pieces are designed for real-life application—short practices you can try between meetings or reflective prompts that help you reset your focus. It’s a useful resource for anyone who wants to slow down, feel more present, and build healthier responses to everyday stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to change everything at once to feel better?
No. Small, consistent changes are more effective and sustainable than overhauls.What if I don’t have much time?
Focus on low-effort habits—short walks, simple meals, brief check-ins with yourself.How long does it take to notice a difference?
Many people feel small improvements within a week or two, especially with sleep and movement.Is motivation required to start?
Not really. Action often creates motivation, not the other way around.Closing thoughts
Looking and feeling your best isn’t about chasing an ideal version of yourself. It’s about creating conditions where you feel supported, capable, and grounded. When your daily habits align with your needs, well-being becomes less of a struggle and more of a natural outcome. Start small, stay curious, and let progress compound.
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