Squat
Squat
Squat (/skwɒt/), from the Old French esquatir meaning "to squat", is a versatile term in the medical field, often used to describe a specific body position or a type of exercise.
Definition
In the context of human anatomy and physical fitness, a squat is a full body exercise where one lowers their hips from a standing position and then stands back up. During the down phase of a squat, the hip and knee joints flex while the ankle joint extends (dorsiflexes). During the up phase, the hip and knee joints extend while the ankle joint flexes (plantarflexes).
Related Terms
- Knee flexion: The bending movement around a joint in a limb (as the knee or elbow) that decreases the angle between the bones of the limb at the joint.
- Hip flexion: A movement by which the angle between the thigh and the trunk is decreased.
- Ankle dorsiflexion: The backward bending and contracting of your hand or foot. This is the movement that raises the foot.
- Ankle plantarflexion: The movement of the foot that flexes the foot or toes downward toward the sole.
Medical Relevance
Squats are often used in physical therapy and exercise prescription due to their ability to strengthen multiple muscle groups at once, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteal muscles. They are also used as a functional movement assessment, as the ability to perform a squat with proper form can indicate adequate strength, flexibility, and balance.
Etymology
The term "squat" originates from the Old French esquatir, meaning "to squat". It was first used in the English language in the 15th century.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Squat
- Wikipedia's article - Squat
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