>I agree that the weight training is incredibly beneficial, and
>squats are a great way to strengthen the legs. In my case, I'm
>already a seasoned exerciser, and have plenty of muscle in my
>legs (and have done plenty of squats). The only area I really
>need to improve is the vastus medialis, which really doesn't
>get much action when you're doing a squat. For me, I
>'practiced' them a little too much, so now I'm laying off of
>them. Of course I've got the whole checklist for biomechanical
>predispositions to knee problems checked off, so that's just
>my situation. Since there's plenty of other moves I can use to
>keep my legs strong, I choose others with less strain on the
>knees. For someone with minimal leg muscle, I agree that
>squats are probably one of the quickest ways to build it up.
You are right that they can be overdone (like anything else, I guess). I continue to do them because I wish to maintain flexibility in my knees and hips (and of course to stay strong). I guess I'm confused as to what sort of squat we're referring to here. Cathe does mainly back squats (bar on the back) so I suppose that's what we're talking about. I also recommend (to clients) doing front squats, bulgarian squats, sumo squats and lateral squats as well and I believe they all have their place in a balanced and efficient workout plan. I also practice 'getting up' from a kneeling/sitting position - going up and down changing the lead leg. It's quite a workout!
To be honest, I'm not sure how knowledgeable ortho docs are about resistance exercise in general. I don't think they get a lot of exercise science related material (and what they do get is probably more rehab related). I've had more than one experience with orthos (and docs in general) who don't even know how to squat properly. Of course there are those that take a personal interest in weight training and they are usually quite knowledgeable. I think though it's rather 'old school' to think that squats in general are 'bad' for the knees.
Carolyn
