I am 62 years old Chinese grandma. My knee was very weak last year and I decided to practice my Chinese squat. I do it in front of my kitchen sink for support. Now I can do about 60 deep squats daily. My groin pain is gone and my knee is getting stronger. Now I can go down the slippery slide with my grandson. 👍
I'm an Argentine tango dancer so I build knee strength to dance at tango marathons where we often dance 20-30 hours during a 3-day weekend. And your walk backwards, with a little work and training, could actually be the beginning of a tango, so keep up the walking backwards. You're on track to being a great dancer :)
Thank you so much for your videos! I'm a 54 year old pianist. My whole life and career is based on sitting. I recently stayed in a traditional Japanese Ryokan. That really brought home to me how un-grounded my Western lifestyle is. Living in a room where you constantly had to go down to floor level to do anything made me realize how little I interact with the ground in my daily life. Tables and counters keep you from having to bend to reach anything. Your bed and chairs mean any rest takes place above the floor. I carefully observed the staff at the Ryokan. There is no break in their relationship to the ground and, in extension, to the earth. Bending down to pick something up off the floor isn't some kind of event for them like it can be in a Western home, it's just life! I want to rediscover that connection in my body and life. I think even a little progress in that direction will have deep and long-lasting physical and spiritual benefits. Thank you so much for creating a channel that will lead me down this exciting path! ❤
I’m 75 years old and my knees are giving out on me. I’m told it’s arthritis. Whatever, I don’t want to get crippled and have to use a walker or wheel chair. I’ve been trying to walk a couple of miles a day and I’ve been trying to add other exercises but don’t know what would be best. Your videos are very informative and encouraging so they’ve helped me decide that learning to do the squat would be a good way to help me keep my strength up. You said that besides being called the Asian squat it’s also called the Slavic squat so I’ve decided to call it the Slavic squat in honor of my mother who was 100% Polish. Thank you for all the exercises you demonstrate and the in-depth explanation of how they work.
Being 71, I noticed my balance failing, probably from sitting around for the past several years. Overall strength has declined, but I'm back on my feet again, gardening. I'm not in bad health, just kind of atrophied, so I've started living on the floor rather than a chair so I can stretch more and strengthen because I get up frequently. My knees need more work, too. I want to be able to move around more because life has so much to offer when I get away from sitting all the time. Thanks for being here. Water skiing is on my bucket list.
I've had a similar experience since being laid off from work and being in covid quarantine. Turning 71 this month and I am glad I found this site. I want my flexibility back and expect improved with these exercises. Thankful for this information!
It isn't easy transitioning to living on the floor when the rest of the household aren't into it. I managed to find my "spot" in front of my usual recliner, put down a small mat with a little low table to the side. It reminds me when I was a kid, how I would be the only one on the floor during family TV time, playing with a toy or game and feeling natural. You know, if anyone asks why, just say "I need to for my health". If they initiate further discussion, you have a chance to explain in more precise detail the how and why of it. You don't need to spend a lot of time there, just enough to feel yourself relaxing into the stretch from sitting or squatting, and charging your muscles properly when you get up. I feel so much better now, and my constant hip pain has vanished!
@@minkademko2335 and Pam W. Your comments are so encouragaing, thank you. I'll be 80 next year. I'm finding my walker frame useful to keep myself from falling while doing the backward walking lol. For the last 9 years I've been getting progressively weaker. These upright health videos give me hope that I can recover at least partial strength and mobility Thanks Upright Health.
The muscle work for many seniors seems nearly impossible. Tracking my successes, no matter how slight, gives me the encouragement to continue. I don't expect strength to magically return overnight, but the past month of periodic strength-building exercises has given me great hope. I do feel much healthier already, with better balance and stamina. It takes time, persistence, and dedication.
I was 600lbs, had a gastric bypass now down to my goal weight for my hieght working on toning and strenghtening everything (painful areas first tho knees) all the damage to my hips knees and back i thought it was end of the road for me now i see i can change ALL this THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTION TO SOCIETY🤙❤💫
I'm 66 and I want to build strength in my knees and hips so I do not start shuffle-walking like an old person. I want my mobility to improve after a year+ being sedentary. I want to easily get up off the floor. These exercises are helping.
I have watched my deceased parents decline in their walking and getting up from a chair. They were wobbly and geared falling all the time. I am wanting to extend my mobility way into my senior years. I am now 68 years old but feel more like 30.. :)
I bred more kneestrength(quadriceps fem)because I Want to practice coming up from floorball to stranding if I Fall. Ishave Bern paralysed after thanks for
@2003garyb You probably know, to keep from developing a shuffle walk etc., you need to stay hydrated and stretch the leg tendons and ligaments, making them strong, flexible and elastic. Good luck. We all need to do this as we age.
I am almost 59, active, healthy weight but have a history of very poor flexibility. I have knee pain, hip pain, and shoulder pain. I recently committed to find a flexibility routine and came across your videos. I love your approach.
I’ll be 70 in June and I have very little strength in my legs and a painful right knee. I enjoy photography especially flowers but when I get down to ground level I can’t get back up again due to lack of strength. Plenty of upper body strength so it’s ok if there’s a handy support nearby but there rarely is. I’m hoping these exercises will help with this.
On a cruise the on board pro photographer used the Asian squat position to shoot. I could not believe she was a human tripod. I have been thinking about it with a brief 2yr healing with titanium rod in leg. Now found this channel i have some steps to follow.
Starting figure skating at 52, I’m doing well but always told, bend your knees more! Going from decades of swimming to skating I’ve realised how much work I need to do on hip and knee strength. But I’m loving the challenge and hoping it will help with not falling, into my golden years! Thank you for the tutorials 👏👏😀
I’m in my 50s and obese. I hope to travel and I want to get around without walking aids. These squats looks like a great way to start strengthening my knees and developing my core. Thank you so much for this video!!!
I discovered today a perfect way to increase my practice of the Asian Squat - gardening, specifically weeding a lot. I spent hours outside and I often have a knee pad to kneel but I am always putting it down and forgetting to bring it along and my knees hurt from kneeling too long. I decided to try the Asian Squat instead. It worked great - but I did notice I need to build my knee strength to make it more comfortable for long periods of time - I was a bit stiff rising after 15-20 minutes. However, I was more comfortable than I expected and it motivated me to figure out how to strengthen my knees. I believe knee strength is important because I have lax ligaments and joints - I must strengthen the muscles in my body if I want to be as active as I am in life at 56 years old - very active. I run, hike, swim and ski - all require healthy knees.
The stairs felt a bit much for me when I tried it , maybe coz I’m over 200 pounds I’ve been doing a lot of walking , both forwards and backwards and seeing good results Instead of stairs you can walk backwards of varying degrees of hills . I recommend building up slowly You can also walk backwards downhill. But be careful as your body accelerates a bit faster so you have to stay focused and go slow. The kneesovertoesguy says backwards walking is the most basic knee over toe movement. Then progress to pushing and pulling a sled . Then do step ups (slowly dropping one heel down to a lower step then back up again ). Then split squats
Sitting around in Covid mode for 2 plus years has left me with very annoyingly sore knees that I have never had before. I'm 73 and this having to build leg muscle is a very new experience, and a tight learning curve. But it has to be done. Thanks for showing me how.
I have a torn meniscus that does not warrant surgery. I'm 36, a nurse, and a mom of toddlers. So I REALLY need strong knees! I'm excited about your "Asian squat" pitch as a fantastic overall leg strengthening solution but I need to fix this knee first. THANK YOU.
I'm old and obese, and though healthy otherwise, am having a big problem going up and down stairs, or even rising from the floor or deep chair. I see no reason not to try to develop better core strength and flexibility, and the Asian squat looks like a fantastic goal. Even if I never quite get all the way there, any progress will improve my life. Meanwhile I'm trying others of your exercises, which make great sense IMO.
I suffer from multiple sclerosis and my left leg is weaker than the right one. Anyway, I am not the fittest person and your suggestions are very appropriate to me. I 've been following you from last week and I already see results. So, I feel hope!!! And I thank you for that ❣️
My knees have clicked and popped since high school. When I had babies, I powered through the pain when rocking them to sleep. Now, I'm taking care of myself differently than I knew was possible so that I can be *present* with the people in my life. (Today, my daughter convinced me to try fencing at the park. 😄)
Because I have arthritis and ensuing knee pain. I am 73 and am determined to stay active, free and independent! For that, I need st4ong flexible knees. Thank you so much for these videos. They are so very helpful.
I love the way you break up exercises to make it more a modular learning. Your videos are exceptionally clear. Makes me feel like I can concur my aches and pains. Thank you. Oh and I want to have stronger knees just because so many people my age (69) are having surgeries or replacements which I would never want and can't afford. Thank you.
Mahalo Matt Hsu, I am 55yrs young(power of the mind, pos or neg) I am a Mature Maternity My 7th grade son just finished football and rolling into wrestling here on Oahu. Raised in San Jose, CA I went to an old school power house high school football and WRESTLING program...Matt...my crackling, old school, possible small arthritis, crunchy knees...I want to be able to coach correctly, how to shoot a single leg or a double leg takedown...in these very basic and every wrestler MUST learn correctly. when shooting, you lower your level (knees are compressing) and then the knee is already lower to the ground and you run the knee onto the mat to complete the take down...THIS IS WHY i fell in love with your video...along with my years in college football and wrestling, i have always been taught(conditioned) ,"you are too old, you cant have a nice smooth shot..single leg take down because your knees are too old.." Well, i have watched your many videos that says otherwise. Mahalo and Aloooooooha Uso(Uso in Samoan means "Brother")
You are a Guru, I am 70yrs young and am starting to do these right now. I love your statementabout "Pain sucks..... " Admirable,Amazing and so Authentic presentation.
I’m 6’3”. I grew really East really early and I have felt my knees in a negative way since puberty. Now at the age of 25 i am preparing to enter a labor intensive trade and I need to keep myself in shape. The area I am most concerned about is the area that already gives me pain at such a young age. Your videos have helped me not only to strengthen my body but given me wisdom in how to use it properly in my daily life.
I tell people that knees are not made for KNEELING! And stress a padded surface or kneeling pad WHENEVER the knee has pressure on a hard surface. I’m 70 and am only ‘screwed up’ where Drs have intervened. Like your videos and great job!!
Hi! I'm 52 years old and I am having trouble with my right knee so I'm going to try out your knee strengthening exercise regimen! Thank you so much for the straightforward to the point guidance , it's really easy to follow and very encouraging!
I need more knee strength because my knees hurt and because I want to be able to get to the ground and back up from it without help. I am 66 years old and want to enjoy life for many more years. Thanks for your video. Will start with the exercises for strengthening my knees.
Discovered you looking for exercises for my bruised and reinjured shoulder. And now I am adding in rebuilding leg strength and flexibility because *fill in the blank" squats and getting down and up without using my hands is my goal. Shout out from Ecuador --- where watching the neighbor's 1+-year-old standing up and starting to walk using her *Baby Squat* to stand, gives me joy and teaches me that we sit on our haunches just like all the other mammal.
Been doing military squats (100+) daily for last 6 months has given me strength for long walks, carrying heavy packages, moving wheelbarrows of dirt, etc. It’s easy to build up reps; I started at 7 and can do 50 now with a rest and then do 50 more. No longer have restless legs at night.
I’m a senior boxer and bout 2 years ago i fell down the stairs at work and landed on my knee , I’ve hurt my meniscus on my knee before, but hurting the front part of my knee ACL was different,so fast forward 2 and half years later , learning how to do the Asian squats helped immediately, and I’m slowly learning and can actually do an Asian squat now but not for very long
I’m in my 50s and trying to learn this because I think it might strengthen my core and help with lower back pain. I can get into that position but only for 10 seconds or so. I really admire the Asian people and others that can do this so effortlessly. Thanks for your great video!
Hello, I'm Magda from the Netherlands. Thanks for this video. I have several chronic illnesses, which means I exercise very little. And because of this I spend a lot of time in bed or on the couch. And it has now reached the point where my complaints are no longer as before. So I really have to get back to work. This video helps enormously with that. Thank you very much. 👍
I went several years without surfing, then moved back to HI and got back into it. Most times I would get a cramp running behind my knee and down through my calf when paddling hard to catch a wave. I tried everything I could think of, taking magnesium pills, massaging my calf in the water, keeping my legs bent. I got hurt a few times and tore my retina. Several months later I got back in the water and could barely hop up. Once I forced myself up and it felt like I pulled something, very painful. I started Asian squats about a week ago. At first it killed me! Now I’m able to squat and get back up without screaming too loud 🤪. More importantly, your exercises are producing results and a roadmap to getting my knees stronger. Thanks!!
I LOVE your Asian squat videos!! I'm 63, a pharmacist and Zumba instructor and I've noticed my knees getting much stiffer lately. I've been doing Asian squat practice for a few minutes a day for several weeks. I can get down and up, but my knees hurt while doing it!! This video is PERFECT for me!!
For years I suffered from knee pain when I climbed stairs or walked for a short distance or knelt in church. I watched Matt video on glute strength and how weak glutes can cause knee and lower back pain. By using Matt's techniques I worked to strengthen my glutes. Now my focus is on my knees and ankles which will lead to having a good balance. At 70, balance is crucial for living. After watching this video, I think by being able to do an Asian squat, I will be sure my knees, ankles, quads, calves, hamstrings and hip flexors are working in an optimum fashion which in turn improve my balance, so I think.
I’ve had three surgeries on my right knee with three years. The first was a bad knee replacement by a bad doctor. Four weeks later he operated on my knee for three infections and disregarding the advice from an infectious decease doctor to replace my knee parts, he didn’t. Three and a half years later after suffering excruciating pain daily, I was referred to a wonderful doctor. After a successful surgery, he advised me the first doctor did not put the titanium in my knee and the knee he put in was to small. Here it’s eleven months since my last surgery and my knee has improved so much. I still have a bit of pain and I’m still exercising. I did it with you today now I’ve put an ice pack on it, but the exercises felt good😊😊. Thank you.
I don't want surgery, I want to get stronger, maintain balance, decrease pain. More importantly, I want to dance for the rest of my life. I worked in a nursing home, and I refuse to be taken care of /use assistive devices for as long as possible. I hope never!
I'm 83 and volunteer at a local animal shelter, walking dogs, some of which are large and tend to pull on the leash a lot (hard on the knees). I addition, I walk and train my own dog daily, so in total I probably walk about 3-5 miles a day. Some years ago, I dislocated my right knee which has periodically "gone-out". I have been doing the "assisted squat" daily and the extension exercises. I've found that my knees are much less troublesome and "go-out" much less frequently. I endorse your technique. I've been using it (mostly) without knowing it. Keeping healthy and fit is important to me. Thanks for your good work.
I just turned 49 years old and after hiking down to a waterfall on s stone staircase my right knee started to hurt and has persisted for almost a month, it is also slightly warm and swollen. I really want to exercise more but have been "resting" my knee. I am going to start with the knee extensions and then work on the squat!
I have the beginning of arthritis in my knees and thus I want to keep my knees and legs strong and reduce pain and inflammation, so I can carry on martial arts and hiking . Thanks for your video! Greetings from Switzerland 🇨🇭
Building knee strength to hold the squat for longer periods, and also for connecting me to the ground in a more solid way, if I had to pick I would go with primal, we all share these movements in a primal way so I think it's the best one, thanks I am very happy with the help, love to all 💙💜💚
I have suffered two years with plantar fascia pain and have done all the supposed exercises to cure this condition without success. Have decided to get my hips, knees and ankles working properly and in good alignment by squatting, both moving squats and the more static asian squat. Your videos have shown me that I am perhaps progressing a bit too quickly, and I don't want further injury down the line so I have adopted your more gradual approach. Soon I will be doing perfect squats and my glutes, quads, hamstrings, ankles and calfs will be stronger and much more flexible! Thank you for the good advice!
Thanks for this video! I used to sit in an Asian squat for long periods of time! Now at 62, I’ve had trouble with my knees. Most squat videos talk about the hips and ankles but after having ACL repair on one knee 15 years ago and recently meniscus repair on the other knee, I have had pain with the deep knee flexion. I can now squat for 30-40 seconds at a time and it is super helpful for my hips. I do it in front of a chair in case I have trouble getting up. I’ll be adding these exercises to my routine. Thank you so much!
In my early 40s and already feeling my knees. Really happy to have stumbled upon your channel. I can do the Asian squat already but my goal is to be able to hold the position for longer periods. Thank you for your detailed instructions!
Thank your for explaining all that and offering easy step by step instructions. I’m older and live with family older than I. I see their lack of mobility and I don’t want that for myself if I can in any way avoid it. So I’m being proactive, and with your help I should succeed. Thank you. I never would have guessed leg extensions and walking backward!
I have fibromyalgia and have recently gone back to work, it's causing quite a bit of pain especially in my knees/legs. I love how simple to understand all your videos are, and how easy it is to modify all the exercises to meet my needs, thank you.
I want better mobility after tearing my glute medial and bursa. I used to be able to squat, but not with feet flat to the floor. Glad I've found this site.
I am a 70 year old woman who used to be more active but since the pandemic and a left side fractured humerus bone and shoulder from a fall a year ago. I have become mostly sedentary and have developed right knee and hip pain especially at night. I don't sleep well because the pain wakes me up. I am also having a Reverse shoulder replacement surgery next month. Your videos and exercises are wonderful. I just started watching today and hopefully they will eventually decrease my right knee and hip pain. Thank you!
Good day to you, Matt! I found your videos after a recent injury of a sprained ankle at work...and I'm blown away. Your instruction is so precise and clear: I feel very silly for almost being 40 and still being such a clutzy human. I've had DECADES of pain from being hit by a car when I was 16 and never got adequate rehabilitation. Combine that with me becoming an obese westerner and taa-daa! My knees and hips are still a daily challenge of movement. I'm going to begin a new journey for myself SLOWLY and safely to hopefully become more limber and more comfortable in my own legs (and complete body). Thank you so much for giving me some hope! Much obliged, - Raine
71 year old still ladder climbing electrician. Tore both knee ACL' s playing baseball and had them reconstructed surgically. Went back to playing both times. Quit playing around 63. I cant do ladders more than two days in a row or my knees start talking to me. Have not been diagnosed but I imagine there is some Arthritis going on. I am going to start doing your hip flexion and knee strengthening exercises slowly with lots of recovery time and see what happens. Thanks.
When I was 11 years old (I am 71 now), my left knee cap was dislocated. Until recently, I have led an active lifestyle, so my knee gave me minimal problems. In 2008 I had a Multiple Sclerosis episode causing plaque to form on my cervical spine, therefore affecting every muscle from there to my toes. Once the severity of the episode subsided, I started exercise again, but my left leg would tire and I would start to drag the left foot. At 65, because of a long lasting depressive state, I started sitting most of the time. Now, I can not get up from the floor without using my hands. As you can imagine, my upper body has become weak also. My PCP blames everything on my age, but I know that is a cop out. It is life style related. I love your presentation. You present comprehensive information without being redundant. You are practical. I like it. I will share this information with my sister who thinks she has to accept her knee pain. Thank you so much!!!
Hey love your videos! I have been hearing crunching and cracking as I walk up the stairs for at least 5 years now. I have been enjoying rollerskating for the last 2 years and a few weeks ago I skated to work 3 days of that week. Since then I have started to get pain in my knee off and on. From watching your videos I am now understanding what's happening. I am going to get On these excerssices and hopefully this will help with my backwards skating too. 😉👍🏾
My preference is the term 'Asian squat' because seems most familiar, most inclusive and least trendy. Are there cases where a deep squat should be avoided? For example, the old and infirm, or those with total knee replacements? Knee strength is particular important to me because (a) skiing, cycling, hiking; (b) I'm getting old and infirm, and supporting my joints by building muscle strength will help me in my longevity goals; (c) in case I ever do kneed a TKR, having strong muscles will surely help in my recovery and rehab.
Recovering from a pulled calf muscle. Your squat has helped relieve tightness and soreness in my calf muscle. I plan to use it more often in the future. Thanks.
arthritis and a torn meniscus is making me walk "old" I had always been able to primal squat until recently-- I miss the awesome back relief a good flat foot squat provides.
Hi I'm Stef in Miami! I want to build knee strength because my knees have been crinkling for the past 22 years since I had my son. I want to make sure that my knees work well when I reach 90. ☺️ After getting into the habit of doing 50 squats a day, I found your channel. My right knee started hurting when I would straighten it after sitting. The first exercise on this video really helped with that! Thank you! ☺️
I am 68, retired in 2020 from a "sitting job". I love to walk, but have not done very much over the last several months as it is too hot where I live. I do have my own little business now with a sit-stand desk. Three weeks ago I started an at-home cycling and strength program. I love it! However, I really dread the exercises that require my getting on the floor because of knee pain and because of how long it takes me to get up and down. I plan to incorporate your recommendations in the hopes regaining my ability to do a deep squat...with fear or pain. Thank you!
Hi Matt! Thanks for showing some great exercises for the knees! Just one point though: For the squatting exercises, it is not recommended to push the knees forward of your toes,while coming down. This warning has been mentioned by many physio-therapists. Also in my own experience, it has caused severe damages to my knee ligaments. Kinldy check & modify your advice if you find this correct. Thanks and all best. Will follow your useful fixes for repairing the tears to all 4 my knee ligaments!
I have seen Africans and south American indigenous people squat like this as well. In America now I only see Asians and toddlers squat like this. (My limited exposure) I have no problem affectionately referring to it as Asian squat. I am in awe of the elderly Asians I know, Cambodian, Filipino, Chinese and Vietnamese that still have this ability. I am 68 and am now determined to be able to accomplish this and when I do I will give credit to you for inspiring me and instructing me how to achieve it.
Hi, in answer to your question. For the last 18 months I’ve been caught up in bereavement eldercare and more bereavement topped up with self indulgence because I told my self well I might die like my brother. Now I realised how much I have let myself go ( it started in Covid) now the mist is clearing I want to live and live well. So started exercising and boy I think the menopause happened when I wasn’t looking and the muscle has evaporated. I tried to do some squats and heard some terrible noises and hoping this is permanent. So I’m starting with these exercises so fingers crossed by my next birthday I will celebrate being well, loving the life I have left and living it with wellness. Thankyou for you gentle and kind videos
I am a young 67, but starting to develop occasional twinges of pain around my right patella. I'll take this as a warning that I need to care for my knees. I am already flexible enough to get into the squat position, but am thinking I should be practicing many of the movements you've just shown here to gain the strength to make this an easy addition to my life. Thanks for a great video!
I had a bad ankle break 5 years ago that resulted in several corrective surgeries. Now that I’m back to normal walking I’ve discovered that I’ve lost a lot of my knee strength. As a senior adult, it Is really hard to get it back…but these exercises are very helpful. It’s helping me ride my bike again!
I have mild CP affecting my whole right side, I don't have as much strength or dexterity/limberness on my right side. I live in a small townhouse and always think the stairs are gonna get me someday (I've only slipped twice in 30+ yrs, but still...) Thank you for these videos, I've heard that the primal squat is a great thing to be able to do.
Thank you for sharing. I'm in my sixties and have started having a little pain in my knees. I also have a balancing problem during aqua fitness I just started. You're very easy to follow and very encouraging. I thought if I begin slowly and build knee strength this would stop the little pains and strengthen my balance.
After 72 years and sitting at a computer desk the last 14 years, I need to strengthen my knees. Recently I did retire and recently I noticed a distinct weakness in my right knee. Also began to wonder how long I could manage without medical intervention. No real pain is felt and there was no concussion of any sort just a feeling of weakness in the knee area. After sitting for any length of time, driving or just getting up in the morning it felt like I had to stand for a couple of minutes to get the blood flowing in that knee to support my weight. The squats as you suggest I would do occasionally but not regularly, but I will now make a real effort to be regular with this exercise. After working a bit much around the yard, I would notice my walking balance not what it used to be, I did play division I sports in college and wondered at what age even a minimal effort in those sports would not be possible. Not ready to throw in the towel just yet, thank you for your suggestions.
I want to build knee strength because a) I'm tired of my knees hurting when I go down the stairs, pain sucks and b) I want to be able to easily drop in and out of a squat (and hang around there for as long as I need to) for gardening. Sitting in seiza or even just kneeling would also be really handy a lot of the time, I'm tall and the floor is far away. I cycle a fair amount (just for general transport, not athletically, but I'm often hauling a trailer full of plants or produce), and probably have some related muscle imbalances contributing to the knee stuff, so this might take a while to sort out. The stairs in our house are small enough that I can't put my whole foot flat on them straight on, so on the way down I tend to turn my foot out, which I suspect is also causing issues, but I'm sure I can figure out a better way of handling those stairs. I also wore stiff hard prescription orthotics for years, which I think didn't do me any favours, and am very, very slowly trying to transition to more minimal footwear -- I've started with zero-drop shoes that still have quite substantial arch support, and have started wearing flat slippers or going barefoot more often... just for part of every day to start with, this is a lot of change so I'll have to be patient, it will probably be a while before my feet are strong enough to deal with hard flat surfaces all the time. But I'm a musician by training and I know that physical practice does actually work.
Thanks for this video!!! I have an aunt who right now is suffering from knee pain to the highest power. My aunt is 86. I am having these troubles at 69. I will use your info to work on myself ! 👍
The menopause kicked in for me six months ago. I swear it's affected my joints. I've only known obscene fitness and want to retain that. .I m employing all these movements to strengthen my ACL which currently feels like shit for some reason. Thank you!
I'm so happy I found your videos. I nearly tore my acl one time and was rehabilitating for a while. Your vids plus one other rockclimbing guy really helped my knees recover so well. It can be done people! Just stick with the stretches for a while. Like a few months. The first month may even feel like fuuuuuuck this isn't working - but it most certainly is. You'll get there. Thank you good sir for these vids. You deserve way more views! Although one of your vids has like 3 mil views which is the one the algorithm made me find at first.
Matt, I think you're giving great advice here. I started practicing this from the yoga community who call this the "yogi squat." I think I prefer the "primal squat." I think this might help me stay out of the orthopedic office for a couple of more years. I'm still not super comfortable in a squat but my knees are already stronger and hip joint pains are much rarer. I am amazed at how resilient a 55 y.o. body can still strengthen and adapt with exercise.
I was just recently diagnosed with runners knee and arthritis on right knee. I don't need to run but want to have no pain when walking or climbing stairs and able to squat down like I normally do. Physical therapy tells me to do the same.
I am in an Asian group in Cambodia doing volunteer work. We go out and call on the neghbors. As you said. Thry many times are squatting doing their chores. My friends can gat down to their level. I feel I am looming over. So, I thank you forn your help to squat .
I'm in my 60's and have sore knees, would like to have days without thinking about my knees. Thankyou for your insight. Funny I used to walk up hill backwards when I was tired. Back to doing that immediately.
I'm a dancer (not professionally!) and also getting a bit older (now 71). Balance and knee/leg strength is critical to me in dance but also in everyday life as I age. Fortunately for me, I can already do this type of squat comfortably, though not for extended periods of time. Want to strengthen that ability for convenience, safety, and (lol!) the continued opportunity to amaze my friends with my flexibility ("and at YOUR age!!!"). Thank you!
I want to start running which I had never done in my entire life. Although I have been an athlete without running. I want to run uphill to ensure better blood circulation & age wise running 76th year.
Need extra knee strength because I have had two half knee replacements, also older, and dont want to vegitate. I really enjoy these exercises, thankyou
Love how you explain your exercises! I suffer from severe osteoarthritis in both knees. Your knee strengthening is helping me to do simple tasks around the house. Thank you! MJA
I’ve been fascinated with this move ever since we were stationed in Japan years ago. I would see Japanese construction workmen gathered around blueprints laid out on the ground, holding this position for very long times. I mistakenly thought perhaps westerners were built different but after seeing your video I now know I was wrong. I love having this as a fitness goal. I’m 67 years old and this WILL happen. I have a bad knee from a large dog running into the front of my knee and hyperextending it backwards. Not an issue for this exercise. I sense the need to have more strength in both my knees for my life going forward. I’m looking forward to mastering this!
I need to build knee strength in my left knee particularly so that I can start doing Squats again and get back into walking. Over the last couple of months my knee pain has progressively gotten worse dispite being able to get out of bed, do a few squats and then go for an 8 kilometre walk. All up I'd walk about 20+ km/day. Now I can't do a squat with out pain and I've given up walking. For some reason, instead of it getting easier it got worse. BTW! Love ya channel. 66yr old Aussie
I like the video, the reason that I want to strengthen my knees is because my wife knees hurt all the time, I came across your video and it was interesting to me. I thought it will help my wife knees. Thank you we will be trying these exercises.
The answer you're question How to strengthen your knees oh, it should be obvious. As long as you enjoy walking, sitting, and standing free of pain and appreciate having knees, Then having the strength is crucial. My question is, I'm able to do the Asian squat while holding on to my couch for balance. But it's not my quads and hamstrings that hurt (although sore afterwards from working out)..... it is my calves that are burning in pain while I'm doing this squat 😩😩
Two reasons I love this video. I have one painful knee that stops me being able to tackle steep steps on a bushwalk. I like gardening and being able to Asian Squat would be extremely helpful. I'm over 70.
As a 60+ old member of a marching band, I need to get down (literally) without getting unbalanced or needing help to get back up. Plus, I've noticed only my shins tend to cramp. Exercising and strengthening these particular muscles, including hips, I think would really help me be more limber.
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I am 62 years old Chinese grandma. My knee was very weak last year and I decided to practice my Chinese squat. I do it in front of my kitchen sink for support. Now I can do about 60 deep squats daily. My groin pain is gone and my knee is getting stronger. Now I can go down the slippery slide with my grandson. 👍
What is your weight ?? I mean are u slim or
That is absolutely wonderful! Way to go! Gives me more hope for my own possible progress.
❤
I'm an Argentine tango dancer so I build knee strength to dance at tango marathons where we often dance 20-30 hours during a 3-day weekend. And your walk backwards, with a little work and training, could actually be the beginning of a tango, so keep up the walking backwards. You're on track to being a great dancer :)
🤣🤣🤣🤣😂🤣😂🤣🤣🤣🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂😂😂😂
AND you do it in high heels!
@@mocuishle1028 thank you for this video. I have been struggling so much with weakness.
Thank you so much for your videos! I'm a 54 year old pianist. My whole life and career is based on sitting. I recently stayed in a traditional Japanese Ryokan. That really brought home to me how un-grounded my Western lifestyle is. Living in a room where you constantly had to go down to floor level to do anything made me realize how little I interact with the ground in my daily life. Tables and counters keep you from having to bend to reach anything. Your bed and chairs mean any rest takes place above the floor.
I carefully observed the staff at the Ryokan. There is no break in their relationship to the ground and, in extension, to the earth. Bending down to pick something up off the floor isn't some kind of event for them like it can be in a Western home, it's just life!
I want to rediscover that connection in my body and life. I think even a little progress in that direction will have deep and long-lasting physical and spiritual benefits. Thank you so much for creating a channel that will lead me down this exciting path! ❤
I’m 75 years old and my knees are giving out on me. I’m told it’s arthritis. Whatever, I don’t want to get crippled and have to use a walker or wheel chair. I’ve been trying to walk a couple of miles a day and I’ve been trying to add other exercises but don’t know what would be best. Your videos are very informative and encouraging so they’ve helped me decide that learning to do the squat would be a good way to help me keep my strength up. You said that besides being called the Asian squat it’s also called the Slavic squat so I’ve decided to call it the Slavic squat in honor of my mother who was 100% Polish. Thank you for all the exercises you demonstrate and the in-depth explanation of how they work.
Being 71, I noticed my balance failing, probably from sitting around for the past several years. Overall strength has declined, but I'm back on my feet again, gardening. I'm not in bad health, just kind of atrophied, so I've started living on the floor rather than a chair so I can stretch more and strengthen because I get up frequently. My knees need more work, too. I want to be able to move around more because life has so much to offer when I get away from sitting all the time. Thanks for being here. Water skiing is on my bucket list.
Thanks for sharing your experience, Minka Demko!
I've had a similar experience since being laid off from work and being in covid quarantine. Turning 71 this month and I am glad I found this site. I want my flexibility back and expect improved with these exercises. Thankful for this information!
It isn't easy transitioning to living on the floor when the rest of the household aren't into it. I managed to find my "spot" in front of my usual recliner, put down a small mat with a little low table to the side. It reminds me when I was a kid, how I would be the only one on the floor during family TV time, playing with a toy or game and feeling natural. You know, if anyone asks why, just say "I need to for my health". If they initiate further discussion, you have a chance to explain in more precise detail the how and why of it. You don't need to spend a lot of time there, just enough to feel yourself relaxing into the stretch from sitting or squatting, and charging your muscles properly when you get up. I feel so much better now, and my constant hip pain has vanished!
@@minkademko2335 and Pam W. Your comments are so encouragaing, thank you. I'll be 80 next year. I'm finding my walker frame useful to keep myself from falling while doing the backward walking lol. For the last 9 years I've been getting progressively weaker. These upright health videos give me hope that I can recover at least partial strength and mobility Thanks Upright Health.
The muscle work for many seniors seems nearly impossible. Tracking my successes, no matter how slight, gives me the encouragement to continue. I don't expect strength to magically return overnight, but the past month of periodic strength-building exercises has given me great hope. I do feel much healthier already, with better balance and stamina. It takes time, persistence, and dedication.
I was 600lbs, had a gastric bypass
now down to my goal weight for my hieght
working on toning and strenghtening everything (painful areas first tho knees)
all the damage to my hips knees and back
i thought it was end of the road for me
now i see i can change ALL this
THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTION TO SOCIETY🤙❤💫
I'm 66 and I want to build strength in my knees and hips so I do not start shuffle-walking like an old person. I want my mobility to improve after a year+ being sedentary. I want to easily get up off the floor. These exercises are helping.
I have watched my deceased parents decline in their walking and getting up from a chair. They were wobbly and geared falling all the time. I am wanting to extend my mobility way into my senior years. I am now 68 years old but feel more like 30.. :)
I'm with you..mobility and strength throughout the older years is very important
I bred more kneestrength(quadriceps fem)because I Want to practice coming up from floorball to stranding if I Fall. Ishave Bern paralysed after thanks for
@2003garyb You probably know, to keep from developing a shuffle walk etc., you need to stay hydrated and stretch the leg tendons and ligaments, making them strong, flexible and elastic. Good luck. We all need to do this as we age.
I am almost 59, active, healthy weight but have a history of very poor flexibility. I have knee pain, hip pain, and shoulder pain. I recently committed to find a flexibility routine and came across your videos. I love your approach.
I lost one liga,ent, but I don’t fell pain free some treatment. Campan I still do these?
I’ll be 70 in June and I have very little strength in my legs and a painful right knee. I enjoy photography especially flowers but when I get down to ground level I can’t get back up again due to lack of strength. Plenty of upper body strength so it’s ok if there’s a handy support nearby but there rarely is. I’m hoping these exercises will help with this.
On a cruise the on board pro photographer used the Asian squat position to shoot. I could not believe she was a human tripod. I have been thinking about it with a brief 2yr healing with titanium rod in leg. Now found this channel i have some steps to follow.
Starting figure skating at 52, I’m doing well but always told, bend your knees more! Going from decades of swimming to skating I’ve realised how much work I need to do on hip and knee strength. But I’m loving the challenge and hoping it will help with not falling, into my golden years! Thank you for the tutorials 👏👏😀
I used to roller skate in my youth; jumps and spins, like figure skating. Good for you, keep at it.
I’m in my 50s and obese. I hope to travel and I want to get around without walking aids. These squats looks like a great way to start strengthening my knees and developing my core. Thank you so much for this video!!!
I discovered today a perfect way to increase my practice of the Asian Squat - gardening, specifically weeding a lot. I spent hours outside and I often have a knee pad to kneel but I am always putting it down and forgetting to bring it along and my knees hurt from kneeling too long. I decided to try the Asian Squat instead. It worked great - but I did notice I need to build my knee strength to make it more comfortable for long periods of time - I was a bit stiff rising after 15-20 minutes. However, I was more comfortable than I expected and it motivated me to figure out how to strengthen my knees. I believe knee strength is important because I have lax ligaments and joints - I must strengthen the muscles in my body if I want to be as active as I am in life at 56 years old - very active. I run, hike, swim and ski - all require healthy knees.
YESSS!! Go get stronger!!! 💪
Wow! Walking upstairs backward was surprisingly challenging for me. Great tips in this video -thank you!
I will try that but unfortunately I live in a bungalow, however I have some in the garden
Thank you very much for sharing this ! I Will try it look chalenging and beneficial 👉👍😉
The stairs felt a bit much for me when I tried it , maybe coz I’m over 200 pounds
I’ve been doing a lot of walking , both forwards and backwards and seeing good results
Instead of stairs you can walk backwards of varying degrees of hills . I recommend building up slowly
You can also walk backwards downhill. But be careful as your body accelerates a bit faster so you have to stay focused and go slow.
The kneesovertoesguy says backwards walking is the most basic knee over toe movement. Then progress to pushing and pulling a sled . Then do step ups (slowly dropping one heel down to a lower step then back up again ). Then split squats
Currently I am having trouble walking UP the stairs in normal fashion, let alone backwards. Wish me luck as I train.
Sitting around in Covid mode for 2 plus years has left me with very annoyingly sore knees that I have never had before. I'm 73 and this having to build leg muscle is a very new experience, and a tight learning curve. But it has to be done. Thanks for showing me how.
I have a torn meniscus that does not warrant surgery. I'm 36, a nurse, and a mom of toddlers. So I REALLY need strong knees! I'm excited about your "Asian squat" pitch as a fantastic overall leg strengthening solution but I need to fix this knee first. THANK YOU.
can you do these after surgery for a torn meniscus? My brother has terribly arthritic knees and just had this surgery.
I'm old and obese, and though healthy otherwise, am having a big problem going up and down stairs, or even rising from the floor or deep chair. I see no reason not to try to develop better core strength and flexibility, and the Asian squat looks like a fantastic goal. Even if I never quite get all the way there, any progress will improve my life. Meanwhile I'm trying others of your exercises, which make great sense IMO.
YOU GO!!! 💪
I suffer from multiple sclerosis and my left leg is weaker than the right one. Anyway, I am not the fittest person and your suggestions are very appropriate to me. I 've been following you from last week and I already see results. So, I feel hope!!! And I thank you for that ❣️
My knees have clicked and popped since high school. When I had babies, I powered through the pain when rocking them to sleep. Now, I'm taking care of myself differently than I knew was possible so that I can be *present* with the people in my life. (Today, my daughter convinced me to try fencing at the park. 😄)
Because I have arthritis and ensuing knee pain. I am 73 and am determined to stay active, free and independent! For that, I need st4ong flexible knees. Thank you so much for these videos. They are so very helpful.
I want to be able to get up and down from the floor. I want my life back after covid. Thank you for being g so basic. Much needed!
I love the way you break up exercises to make it more a modular learning. Your videos are exceptionally clear. Makes me feel like I can concur my aches and pains. Thank you. Oh and I want to have stronger knees just because so many people my age (69) are having surgeries or replacements which I would never want and can't afford. Thank you.
Same!
Mahalo Matt Hsu, I am 55yrs young(power of the mind, pos or neg) I am a Mature Maternity My 7th grade son just finished football and rolling into wrestling here on Oahu. Raised in San Jose, CA I went to an old school power house high school football and WRESTLING program...Matt...my crackling, old school, possible small arthritis, crunchy knees...I want to be able to coach correctly, how to shoot a single leg or a double leg takedown...in these very basic and every wrestler MUST learn correctly. when shooting, you lower your level (knees are compressing) and then the knee is already lower to the ground and you run the knee onto the mat to complete the take down...THIS IS WHY i fell in love with your video...along with my years in college football and wrestling, i have always been taught(conditioned) ,"you are too old, you cant have a nice smooth shot..single leg take down because your knees are too old.." Well, i have watched your many videos that says otherwise. Mahalo and Aloooooooha Uso(Uso in Samoan means "Brother")
You are a Guru, I am 70yrs young and am starting to do these right now. I love your statementabout "Pain sucks..... " Admirable,Amazing and so Authentic presentation.
I am a marathon runner and a Personal trainer. I love learning more skills each time and I need stronger knees for running uphill and downhil.
I’m 6’3”. I grew really East really early and I have felt my knees in a negative way since puberty. Now at the age of 25 i am preparing to enter a labor intensive trade and I need to keep myself in shape. The area I am most concerned about is the area that already gives me pain at such a young age. Your videos have helped me not only to strengthen my body but given me wisdom in how to use it properly in my daily life.
I tell people that knees are not made for KNEELING! And stress a padded surface or kneeling pad WHENEVER the knee has pressure on a hard surface. I’m 70 and am only ‘screwed up’ where Drs have intervened. Like your videos and great job!!
Hi! I'm 52 years old and I am having trouble with my right knee so I'm going to try out your knee strengthening exercise regimen! Thank you so much for the straightforward to the point guidance , it's really easy to follow and very encouraging!
I need more knee strength because my knees hurt and because I want to be able to get to the ground and back up from it without help. I am 66 years old and want to enjoy life for many more years. Thanks for your video. Will start with the exercises for strengthening my knees.
Discovered you looking for exercises for my bruised and reinjured shoulder.
And now I am adding in rebuilding leg strength and flexibility because *fill in the blank" squats and getting down and up without using my hands is my goal.
Shout out from Ecuador --- where watching the neighbor's 1+-year-old standing up and starting to walk using her *Baby Squat* to stand, gives me joy and teaches me that we sit on our haunches just like all the other mammal.
Been doing military squats (100+) daily for last 6 months has given me strength for long walks, carrying heavy packages, moving wheelbarrows of dirt, etc. It’s easy to build up reps; I started at 7 and can do 50 now with a rest and then do 50 more. No longer have restless legs at night.
I'm a postie (mailman) in the UK and was diagnosed with arthritis in my right knee. Will be trying these exercises. Especially the moonwalk. Love MJ😂👌
I’m a senior boxer and bout 2 years ago i fell down the stairs at work and landed on my knee , I’ve hurt my meniscus on my knee before, but hurting the front part of my knee ACL was different,so fast forward 2 and half years later , learning how to do the Asian squats helped immediately, and I’m slowly learning and can actually do an Asian squat now but not for very long
I’m in my 50s and trying to learn this because I think it might strengthen my core and help with lower back pain. I can get into that position but only for 10 seconds or so. I really admire the Asian people and others that can do this so effortlessly. Thanks for your great video!
Awaiting two hip replacements. Must engage the squat for quality of life and be ready to tap dance again. Thank you!
Hello, I'm Magda from the Netherlands.
Thanks for this video. I have several chronic illnesses, which means I exercise very little. And because of this I spend a lot of time in bed or on the couch. And it has now reached the point where my complaints are no longer as before. So I really have to get back to work. This video helps enormously with that. Thank you very much. 👍
You got this!
I went several years without surfing, then moved back to HI and got back into it. Most times I would get a cramp running behind my knee and down through my calf when paddling hard to catch a wave. I tried everything I could think of, taking magnesium pills, massaging my calf in the water, keeping my legs bent. I got hurt a few times and tore my retina. Several months later I got back in the water and could barely hop up. Once I forced myself up and it felt like I pulled something, very painful. I started Asian squats about a week ago. At first it killed me! Now I’m able to squat and get back up without screaming too loud 🤪. More importantly, your exercises are producing results and a roadmap to getting my knees stronger. Thanks!!
I LOVE your Asian squat videos!! I'm 63, a pharmacist and Zumba instructor and I've noticed my knees getting much stiffer lately. I've been doing Asian squat practice for a few minutes a day for several weeks. I can get down and up, but my knees hurt while doing it!! This video is PERFECT for me!!
This is awesome - I'd like to strengthen my knee to walk normally again. Your videos are fantastic! Thank you!!
For years I suffered from knee pain when I climbed stairs or walked for a short distance or knelt in church. I watched Matt video on glute strength and how weak glutes can cause knee and lower back pain. By using Matt's techniques I worked to strengthen my glutes. Now my focus is on my knees and ankles which will lead to having a good balance. At 70, balance is crucial for living. After watching this video, I think by being able to do an Asian squat, I will be sure my knees, ankles, quads, calves, hamstrings and hip flexors are working in an optimum fashion which in turn improve my balance, so I think.
I’ve had three surgeries on my right knee with three years. The first was a bad knee replacement by a bad doctor. Four weeks later he operated on my knee for three infections and disregarding the advice from an infectious decease doctor to replace my knee parts, he didn’t. Three and a half years later after suffering excruciating pain daily, I was referred to a wonderful doctor. After a successful surgery, he advised me the first doctor did not put the titanium in my knee and the knee he put in was to small. Here it’s eleven months since my last surgery and my knee has improved so much. I still have a bit of pain and I’m still exercising. I did it with you today now I’ve put an ice pack on it, but the exercises felt good😊😊. Thank you.
I forgot to mention I’m 75 years old and the first doctor took the joy out of living for a long time.
Great video, thanks! Quick question. If I continue doing this for a long time, will the cracking sounds come from my knee stop?
I don't want surgery, I want to get stronger, maintain balance, decrease pain. More importantly, I want to dance for the rest of my life. I worked in a nursing home, and I refuse to be taken care of /use assistive devices for as long as possible. I hope never!
I'm 83 and volunteer at a local animal shelter, walking dogs, some of which are large and tend to pull on the leash a lot (hard on the knees). I addition, I walk and train my own dog daily, so in total I probably walk about 3-5 miles a day. Some years ago, I dislocated my right knee which has periodically "gone-out". I have been doing the "assisted squat" daily and the extension exercises. I've found that my knees are much less troublesome and "go-out" much less frequently. I endorse your technique. I've been using it (mostly) without knowing it. Keeping healthy and fit is important to me. Thanks for your good work.
Knee strength is a must to walk , cycle and run 🙏
I just turned 49 years old and after hiking down to a waterfall on s stone staircase my right knee started to hurt and has persisted for almost a month, it is also slightly warm and swollen. I really want to exercise more but have been "resting" my knee. I am going to start with the knee extensions and then work on the squat!
I have the beginning of arthritis in my knees and thus I want to keep my knees and legs strong and reduce pain and inflammation, so I can carry on martial arts and hiking . Thanks for your video! Greetings from Switzerland 🇨🇭
Improving my squats improves my whole posture. Thanks for the great exercises🤩
Im avoiding hip surgery. My knees r now very weak too and hurt going up and down the 33 stairs in my home. Ur exercises r awesome!
Building knee strength to hold the squat for longer periods, and also for connecting me to the ground in a more solid way, if I had to pick I would go with primal, we all share these movements in a primal way so I think it's the best one, thanks I am very happy with the help, love to all 💙💜💚
I have suffered two years with plantar fascia pain and have done all the supposed exercises to cure this condition without success. Have decided to get my hips, knees and ankles working properly and in good alignment by squatting, both moving squats and the more static asian squat. Your videos have shown me that I am perhaps progressing a bit too quickly, and I don't want further injury down the line so I have adopted your more gradual approach. Soon I will be doing perfect squats and my glutes, quads, hamstrings, ankles and calfs will be stronger and much more flexible! Thank you for the good advice!
Great to hear! Keep up the good work!
Thanks for this video! I used to sit in an Asian squat for long periods of time! Now at 62, I’ve had trouble with my knees. Most squat videos talk about the hips and ankles but after having ACL repair on one knee 15 years ago and recently meniscus repair on the other knee, I have had pain with the deep knee flexion. I can now squat for 30-40 seconds at a time and it is super helpful for my hips. I do it in front of a chair in case I have trouble getting up. I’ll be adding these exercises to my routine. Thank you so much!
In my early 40s and already feeling my knees. Really happy to have stumbled upon your channel. I can do the Asian squat already but my goal is to be able to hold the position for longer periods. Thank you for your detailed instructions!
Thank your for explaining all that and offering easy step by step instructions. I’m older and live with family older than I. I see their lack of mobility and I don’t want that for myself if I can in any way avoid it. So I’m being proactive, and with your help I should succeed. Thank you. I never would have guessed leg extensions and walking backward!
Thanks for this instruction. I am 71 and have pain in hips and knees from sitting too much. I am doing better since I started this exercise.
I have fibromyalgia and have recently gone back to work, it's causing quite a bit of pain especially in my knees/legs. I love how simple to understand all your videos are, and how easy it is to modify all the exercises to meet my needs, thank you.
Love it! Keep moving and challenging your body! You will be glad you did in a year's time! 🙏
I want better mobility after tearing my glute medial and bursa. I used to be able to squat, but not with feet flat to the floor. Glad I've found this site.
I am a 70 year old woman who used to be more active but since the pandemic and a left side fractured humerus bone and shoulder from a fall a year ago. I have become mostly sedentary and have developed right knee and hip pain especially at night. I don't sleep well because the pain wakes me up. I am also having a Reverse shoulder replacement surgery next month. Your videos and exercises are wonderful. I just started watching today and hopefully they will eventually decrease my right knee and hip pain. Thank you!
I am 72 and don’t want a knee operation, sore knee’s, and you have encouraged me well! Excited.
Good day to you, Matt! I found your videos after a recent injury of a sprained ankle at work...and I'm blown away. Your instruction is so precise and clear: I feel very silly for almost being 40 and still being such a clutzy human. I've had DECADES of pain from being hit by a car when I was 16 and never got adequate rehabilitation. Combine that with me becoming an obese westerner and taa-daa! My knees and hips are still a daily challenge of movement.
I'm going to begin a new journey for myself SLOWLY and safely to hopefully become more limber and more comfortable in my own legs (and complete body).
Thank you so much for giving me some hope! Much obliged, - Raine
I am a 68 slim female. I had knee surgery years ago, I try to do the seated knee bends a few times a week. They do work. Thanks
71 year old still ladder climbing electrician. Tore both knee ACL' s playing baseball and had them reconstructed surgically. Went back to playing both times. Quit playing around 63. I cant do ladders more than two days in a row or my knees start talking to me. Have not been diagnosed but I imagine there is some Arthritis going on. I am going to start doing your hip flexion and knee strengthening exercises slowly with lots of recovery time and see what happens. Thanks.
When I was 11 years old (I am 71 now), my left knee cap was dislocated. Until recently, I have led an active lifestyle, so my knee gave me minimal problems. In 2008 I had a Multiple Sclerosis episode causing plaque to form on my cervical spine, therefore affecting every muscle from there to my toes. Once the severity of the episode subsided, I started exercise again, but my left leg would tire and I would start to drag the left foot. At 65, because of a long lasting depressive state, I started sitting most of the time. Now, I can not get up from the floor without using my hands. As you can imagine, my upper body has become weak also. My PCP blames everything on my age, but I know that is a cop out. It is life style related. I love your presentation. You present comprehensive information without being redundant. You are practical. I like it. I will share this information with my sister who thinks she has to accept her knee pain. Thank you so much!!!
Hey love your videos!
I have been hearing crunching and cracking as I walk up the stairs for at least 5 years now. I have been enjoying rollerskating for the last 2 years and a few weeks ago I skated to work 3 days of that week.
Since then I have started to get pain in my knee off and on.
From watching your videos I am now understanding what's happening.
I am going to get On these excerssices and hopefully this will help with my backwards skating too. 😉👍🏾
My preference is the term 'Asian squat' because seems most familiar, most inclusive and least trendy. Are there cases where a deep squat should be avoided? For example, the old and infirm, or those with total knee replacements? Knee strength is particular important to me because (a) skiing, cycling, hiking; (b) I'm getting old and infirm, and supporting my joints by building muscle strength will help me in my longevity goals; (c) in case I ever do kneed a TKR, having strong muscles will surely help in my recovery and rehab.
Recovering from a pulled calf muscle. Your squat has helped relieve tightness and soreness in my calf muscle. I plan to use it more often in the future. Thanks.
arthritis and a torn meniscus is making me walk "old" I had always been able to primal squat until recently-- I miss the awesome back relief a good flat foot squat provides.
Hi I'm Stef in Miami! I want to build knee strength because my knees have been crinkling for the past 22 years since I had my son. I want to make sure that my knees work well when I reach 90. ☺️
After getting into the habit of doing 50 squats a day, I found your channel. My right knee started hurting when I would straighten it after sitting. The first exercise on this video really helped with that! Thank you! ☺️
I am 68, retired in 2020 from a "sitting job". I love to walk, but have not done very much over the last several months as it is too hot where I live. I do have my own little business now with a sit-stand desk. Three weeks ago I started an at-home cycling and strength program. I love it! However, I really dread the exercises that require my getting on the floor because of knee pain and because of how long it takes me to get up and down. I plan to incorporate your recommendations in the hopes regaining my ability to do a deep squat...with fear or pain. Thank you!
Asian Squat works for me! So does Matt Hsu!! Bravo for all you do !!!
Hi Matt!
Thanks for showing some great exercises for the knees!
Just one point though:
For the squatting exercises, it is not recommended to push the knees forward of your toes,while coming down.
This warning has been mentioned by many physio-therapists.
Also in my own experience, it has caused severe damages to my knee ligaments.
Kinldy check & modify your advice if you find this correct.
Thanks and all best.
Will follow your useful fixes for repairing the tears to all 4 my knee ligaments!
I have seen Africans and south American indigenous people squat like this as well. In America now I only see Asians and toddlers squat like this. (My limited exposure) I have no problem affectionately referring to it as Asian squat. I am in awe of the elderly Asians I know, Cambodian, Filipino, Chinese and Vietnamese that still have this ability. I am 68 and am now determined to be able to accomplish this and when I do I will give credit to you for inspiring me and instructing me how to achieve it.
Hi, in answer to your question. For the last 18 months I’ve been caught up in bereavement eldercare and more bereavement topped up with self indulgence because I told my self well I might die like my brother. Now I realised how much I have let myself go ( it started in Covid) now the mist is clearing I want to live and live well. So started exercising and boy I think the menopause happened when I wasn’t looking and the muscle has evaporated. I tried to do some squats and heard some terrible noises and hoping this is permanent. So I’m starting with these exercises so fingers crossed by my next birthday I will celebrate being well, loving the life I have left and living it with wellness. Thankyou for you gentle and kind videos
I am a young 67, but starting to develop occasional twinges of pain around my right patella. I'll take this as a warning that I need to care for my knees. I am already flexible enough to get into the squat position, but am thinking I should be practicing many of the movements you've just shown here to gain the strength to make this an easy addition to my life. Thanks for a great video!
I had a bad ankle break 5 years ago that resulted in several corrective surgeries. Now that I’m back to normal walking I’ve discovered that I’ve lost a lot of my knee strength. As a senior adult, it Is really hard to get it back…but these exercises are very helpful. It’s helping me ride my bike again!
Thank you so much! I am doing so much better after just one session!
I have mild CP affecting my whole right side, I don't have as much strength or dexterity/limberness on my right side. I live in a small townhouse and always think the stairs are gonna get me someday (I've only slipped twice in 30+ yrs, but still...) Thank you for these videos, I've heard that the primal squat is a great thing to be able to do.
Thank you for sharing. I'm in my sixties and have started having a little pain in my knees. I also have a balancing problem during aqua fitness I just started. You're very easy to follow and very encouraging. I thought if I begin slowly and build knee strength this would stop the little pains and strengthen my balance.
My left knee sometimes hurts, I feel I should excise it, I’m excising both knees, ThankYou for all your videos
After 72 years and sitting at a computer desk the last 14 years, I need to strengthen my knees. Recently I did retire and recently I noticed a distinct weakness in my right knee. Also began to wonder how long I could manage without medical intervention. No real pain is felt and there was no concussion of any sort just a feeling of weakness in the knee area. After sitting for any length of time, driving or just getting up in the morning it felt like I had to stand for a couple of minutes to get the blood flowing in that knee to support my weight. The squats as you suggest I would do occasionally but not regularly, but I will now make a real effort to be regular with this exercise. After working a bit much around the yard, I would notice my walking balance not what it used to be, I did play division I sports in college and wondered at what age even a minimal effort in those sports would not be possible. Not ready to throw in the towel just yet, thank you for your suggestions.
I want to build knee strength because a) I'm tired of my knees hurting when I go down the stairs, pain sucks and b) I want to be able to easily drop in and out of a squat (and hang around there for as long as I need to) for gardening. Sitting in seiza or even just kneeling would also be really handy a lot of the time, I'm tall and the floor is far away. I cycle a fair amount (just for general transport, not athletically, but I'm often hauling a trailer full of plants or produce), and probably have some related muscle imbalances contributing to the knee stuff, so this might take a while to sort out. The stairs in our house are small enough that I can't put my whole foot flat on them straight on, so on the way down I tend to turn my foot out, which I suspect is also causing issues, but I'm sure I can figure out a better way of handling those stairs. I also wore stiff hard prescription orthotics for years, which I think didn't do me any favours, and am very, very slowly trying to transition to more minimal footwear -- I've started with zero-drop shoes that still have quite substantial arch support, and have started wearing flat slippers or going barefoot more often... just for part of every day to start with, this is a lot of change so I'll have to be patient, it will probably be a while before my feet are strong enough to deal with hard flat surfaces all the time. But I'm a musician by training and I know that physical practice does actually work.
I'm 77+ ,swing or salsa dance twice a week, sometimes resulting in knee pain. Had no idea stretching could make such a difference. Thanks so much !!
Thanks for this video!!! I have an aunt who right now is suffering from knee pain to the highest power. My aunt is 86. I am having these troubles at 69. I will use your info to work on myself ! 👍
44yo just started skateboarding Need more knee strength. Thanks for these vids !!!
Yes I need improving knee strength to feel completely comfortable in the asian squat position ❤😊
The menopause kicked in for me six months ago. I swear it's affected my joints. I've only known obscene fitness and want to retain that. .I m employing all these movements to strengthen my ACL which currently feels like shit for some reason. Thank you!
I'm so happy I found your videos. I nearly tore my acl one time and was rehabilitating for a while. Your vids plus one other rockclimbing guy really helped my knees recover so well.
It can be done people! Just stick with the stretches for a while. Like a few months. The first month may even feel like fuuuuuuck this isn't working - but it most certainly is. You'll get there.
Thank you good sir for these vids. You deserve way more views! Although one of your vids has like 3 mil views which is the one the algorithm made me find at first.
Matt, I think you're giving great advice here. I started practicing this from the yoga community who call this the "yogi squat." I think I prefer the "primal squat." I think this might help me stay out of the orthopedic office for a couple of more years. I'm still not super comfortable in a squat but my knees are already stronger and hip joint pains are much rarer. I am amazed at how resilient a 55 y.o. body can still strengthen and adapt with exercise.
I was just recently diagnosed with runners knee and arthritis on right knee. I don't need to run but want to have no pain when walking or climbing stairs and able to squat down like I normally do. Physical therapy tells me to do the same.
I am in an Asian group in Cambodia doing volunteer work. We go out and call on the neghbors. As you said. Thry many times are squatting doing their chores. My friends can gat down to their level. I feel I am looming over. So, I thank you forn
your help to squat .
I'm in my 60's and have sore knees, would like to have days without thinking about my knees. Thankyou for your insight. Funny I used to walk up hill backwards when I was tired. Back to doing that immediately.
I'm a dancer (not professionally!) and also getting a bit older (now 71). Balance and knee/leg strength is critical to me in dance but also in everyday life as I age. Fortunately for me, I can already do this type of squat comfortably, though not for extended periods of time. Want to strengthen that ability for convenience, safety, and (lol!) the continued opportunity to amaze my friends with my flexibility ("and at YOUR age!!!"). Thank you!
I want to start running which I had never done in my entire life. Although I have been an athlete without running. I want to run uphill to ensure better blood circulation & age wise running 76th year.
Need extra knee strength because I have had two half knee replacements, also older, and dont want to vegitate. I really enjoy these exercises, thankyou
Love how you explain your exercises! I suffer from severe osteoarthritis in both knees. Your knee strengthening is helping me to do simple tasks around the house. Thank you! MJA
I’ve been fascinated with this move ever since we were stationed in Japan years ago. I would see Japanese construction workmen gathered around blueprints laid out on the ground, holding this position for very long times. I mistakenly thought perhaps westerners were built different but after seeing your video I now know I was wrong. I love having this as a fitness goal. I’m 67 years old and this WILL happen. I have a bad knee from a large dog running into the front of my knee and hyperextending it backwards. Not an issue for this exercise. I sense the need to have more strength in both my knees for my life going forward. I’m looking forward to mastering this!
I need to build knee strength in my left knee particularly so that I can start doing Squats again and get back into walking. Over the last couple of months my knee pain has progressively gotten worse dispite being able to get out of bed, do a few squats and then go for an 8 kilometre walk.
All up I'd walk about 20+ km/day.
Now I can't do a squat with out pain and I've given up walking. For some reason, instead of it getting easier it got worse.
BTW! Love ya channel.
66yr old Aussie
I like the video, the reason that I want to strengthen my knees is because my wife knees hurt all the time, I came across your video and it was interesting to me. I thought it will help my wife knees. Thank you we will be trying these exercises.
The answer you're question How to strengthen your knees oh, it should be obvious. As long as you enjoy walking, sitting, and standing free of pain and appreciate having knees, Then having the strength is crucial.
My question is, I'm able to do the Asian squat while holding on to my couch for balance. But it's not my quads and hamstrings that hurt (although sore afterwards from working out).....
it is my calves that are burning in pain while I'm doing this squat 😩😩
Thank you for this video.I am very excited to do the exercises. I wanna strengthen my knees. Flexible knees make me move easily.
Two reasons I love this video. I have one painful knee that stops me being able to tackle steep steps on a bushwalk. I like gardening and being able to Asian Squat would be extremely helpful. I'm over 70.
As a 60+ old member of a marching band, I need to get down (literally) without getting unbalanced or needing help to get back up. Plus, I've noticed only my shins tend to cramp. Exercising and strengthening these particular muscles, including hips, I think would really help me be more limber.