Alternative to squats

[reformedafc]

I do a wide range of lifts, but one that (unfortunately) I have to avoid are squats. I know how great they are, but because of my knees I just can't handle the kind of weight I need. I do deadlifts, leg presses, lunges, etc. What would your recommendations for a good squat alternative be? Diesel, your input would be appreciated.

 

[Fred Da Head]

I'm told the best alternative to squats is the leg press... but maybe DIESEL has another input on the matter.

 

[Big N]

Deadlifts (if you can do them) are a great, if not the best, alternative to squats. Check that ExRx website for exercises involving the hips and legs.

 

[Demon]

Fix your knees and then do squats. Proper dumbbell squats are even harder. There is NO ALTERNATIVE to squats meaning that no other exercise comes close to the effect of squats.

 

[DJ Girevik]

Hack squat (like deadlifts with the bar behind your legs instead of in front), if you can do them.

 

[Soshyopathe]

Originally posted by Big N
Deadlifts (if you can do them) are a great, if not the best, alternative to squats.

Except they work 2 different areas.

How can you deadlift and leg press and hack squat but not squat? That's puss-talk. You never "can't" do squats. Start out with only the bar if you have to. Get a pro to help you get perfect form, and start every leg day with light squats, and build up from there. It'll be better for you to be able to do the real thing than try to substitute. Squats are the excersize.

Just like muscles, joints can heal and get stronger. Take a couple weeks off to heal the knees if you must, then work them back up like a lagging muscle. You can do it.