The Squat Rack

?Getting fit and healthy are two of the most popular New Year’s resolutions. Hey, don’t take my word for it just take a look around the gym next time you’re there at the beginning of a year. I guarantee you that all of the benches will be filled with guys working to reach their max. Glance over to the curl racks and notice how empty they are as guys, and girls, are pumping those biceps up. There are lines at the treadmills and Stairmaster’s, good luck if you are looking to work shoulders or lats and if you want to take some type of aerobics class…uh…yeah.

Always and without fail, there’s that one simple but incredibly useful piece of equipment sitting idly in a dark corner all by its lonesome, being ignored and devalued…the squat rack. Yes…the squat rack. There are other leg exercises but none of them can build your legs, your foundation if you will like those you do at the squat rack. It builds your quadriceps on the way down; it builds your hamstrings on the way up and builds your calves throughout the entire move. 

Oh sure some people can have bulging biceps, sculpted triceps, a v-shaped back, six- pack abs and bricks for deltoids but it takes a special kind of person to go to that squat rack. It’s a lonely place and it’s painful. Seldom if ever will anyone come over and ask you how many more sets you have on it…because they have no interest in it. It takes a different kind of person to work with you on squat days. When you’re building your legs, your foundation, workout partners…ok…friends become distant because they don’t understand nor can they appreciate what is about to occur…where you’re trying to go…

But here’s the deal. At some point, your legs have to show. The biceps, triceps, chest and all that sure they look good but there is something incredible about a person who has taken the time to build their legs, their foundation. They know what’s important; so they start at the bottom: they know it’s going to hurt but they deal with the pain…they see it, they get it…and they win. 

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You might not step into a gym all year long but each day offers the opportunity to squat. Do you want to build your nest egg? Take your lunch and stop eating out. Nice one! If you want to start owning and stop renting…let that new outfit stay at the mall. Looking good! If it’s growth you seek…turn off the TV…and read a book. Great set! Friends won’t understand it and it will be a lonely place but oh when you’re done…something and someone incredible will be standing in the mirror. 

You’ve got goals that require a foundation so do yourself a favor and start today friend…spend a little time…

At the squat rack…