In
strength training and fitness, the
squat is a compound, full body exercise that trains primarily the
muscles of the
thighs,
hips and
buttocks, quadriceps (
vastus lateralis,
vastus medialis,
vastus intermedius and
rectus femoris),
hamstrings, as well as strengthening the
bones,
ligaments and insertion of the
tendons throughout the lower body. Squats are considered a vital exercise for increasing the strength and
size of the legs and buttocks, as well as developing
core strength.
Isometrically, the
lower back, the upper back, the
abdominals, the trunk muscles, the costal muscles, and the
shoulders and arms are all essential to the exercise and thus are trained when squatting with the proper form.