Whether you are a casual exerciser or a trained athlete looking to get that competitive edge, squatting is the right exercise for you. Up there in the workout hall of fame with the Dead Lift, the squat is just one of those exercises that hits so many parts of your body, giving you a fantastic workout…with just one exercise. 

                                                                        Olympic Squat

Studies at Duke University found that when done properly, the squat is incredible at building strength and endurance in the quadriceps, hamstrings and calf muscles but that’s not all! This is where we get a little science-y.

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When talking about the All-Star exercises out there in the history of treadmills and dumbbells, the Dead Lift is arguably  the best exercise you can do when working out. Out of any exercise or weight lifting technique that you or anyone else knows, the Dead Lift works more muscle per movement than any other exercise - including the beloved squat! From an athlete trying to gain an advantage on the court or field, to someone who just wants to be healthier, the dead lift should not be ignored by anyone. However, with an exercise called the ‘DEAD’ lift, the name is not the most daunting aspect of this exercise. This is one exercise you SHOULD NOT do unless properly ready.

PROPER FORM IS KEY IN BUILDING STRENGTH AND AVOIDING SERIOUS INJURY WHEN DEAD LIFTING!

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Everyone is different, so we can’t suggest how much weight to lift the first time you use Vitogo. However, we do tell you how many repetitions you are supposed to do, which will help you determine the appropriate amount of weight to lift. Here’s how:

1) Each exercise in your daily program will tell you how many sets and repetitions to do (For example, 3 sets x 8 reps). The number of recommended repetitions is tailored to your goal.

2) Pick a weight that you think you can safely lift for the recommended number of repetitions (In this case, 8 times).

3) Using the built-in countdown timer, rest for the recommended period between sets.

4) If you are able to easily complete all (or more) of the recommended sets and reps, then you know that you need to increase your weight for next time. If you weren’t able to complete the recommended number of sets and reps, then you should decrease your weight for next time.

5) You should feel tired by the end of your last set. Be safe, but don’t make it too easy! To see a real benefit from strength training, you need to lift weight that is heavy enough to challenge you. For some exercises, like the bench press, it can be helpful to ask a friend or trainer at the gym to “spot” you. It’s the spotters’ job to help you if you are struggling to lift the weight and to keep you safe during a challenging lift.

6) Vitogo stores the number of repetitions and amount of weight that you do for each exercise, so, the next time you complete that exercise you will remember how much weight to lift.

The best way to achieve results – whether that’s gaining muscle, losing weight, toning, or building endurance – is through strength training.  Eventually, if you want to continue to see results, you’ll have to either get a gym membership or purchase some equipment for home.  However, for those of you who are just starting an exercise program and for those days when you can’t make it to they gym, here are some ways that you can get a good workout either without equipment or with minimal equipment.

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