How to Do a Hindu Squat

Hindu squats have been used for centuries to build strong legs with explosive power. Indeed, the great Indian wrestler Gama used them to develop tree trunk thighs that overwhelmed his foes. While regular squats use weights which may prove dangerous, Hindu squats can be performed anywhere and are easy on the joints. Learn how to build powerful legs by following the steps below.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Check with your doctor to see what type of exercise program is advisable for you.
2. Begin with your hands pulled into the chest, feet a shoulder's width apart and toes pointed forward. While keeping the back straight, squat down with your legs, bringing your arms down and behind you for balance.
3. Come up onto your toes at the bottom of the exercise maintaining a straight posture. Then swing the arms forward while pushing back up off your toes.
4. Continue to rise until you are back in the standing position. The arms should move up until they reach chest level during this phase. Once you have completed the squat, pull your hands back into your chest and start over.
5. Perform breaths during each repetition exhaling on the way down while inhaling on the way up. Think of your lungs as an accordion that releases air as it is compressed (during the downward motion) then fills again with air as it is pulled apart (returning to a standing position).
6. Progress slowly. Begin gradually, performing 20 to 40 squats in a session until your body has become acclimated to the move. According to Matt Furey, author of "Combat Conditioning," once you can do 500 Hindu squats within a 15-minute period, you are on your way to greatness.