Forget the Perfect Squat: Find Your Squat Instead!

Let’s be honest — squats can be confusing! I’ve been doing squats - or Malasana - for years, and I still find myself asking, “Am I doing this right?” If you’ve ever wondered the same, you’re not alone!

Here’s what I’ve learned: there’s no single “perfect” squat that works for everyone. And yes — that’s good news!

For me, one common challenge has always been limited ankle flexibility. Sometimes when I squat deep, my heels want to lift — and for a long time, I thought that was “wrong.” But guess what? Depending on your body and your goal, it’s totally fine to squat with heels down or slightly elevated. Both are valid and useful!

And it’s not just about ankle flexibility. The real kicker? Biomechanics! The shape of your hip sockets, the length of your femurs, shins and torso, and even your spinal curves all affect how you squat, according to yoga icon Bernie Clark from Vancouver. Some people can drop into a deep squat like it’s nothing — others (like me!) have to work for it. And that’s normal — it’s how we’re built!

Now, if I want to work balance and control, I keep my heels down and go as deep as I can while staying grounded. But if I want to hit that deep range and build more flexibility? I’ll elevate my heels a bit with a slant board or rolled mat and go for it — because that works for my body!

So if you’ve been frustrated thinking you "should" squat a certain way — relax! Your body gets to decide what your squat looks like. Find the version that feels strong, safe, and right for YOU.

A proviso or two: While there’s no single "perfect" squat, there are smart things to do and common pitfalls to avoid. For example, your feet can be different distances apart — some people need a wide stance, others are more comfortable narrow. But wherever your feet are, your knees should follow the centreline of the foot to keep the knees stable and avoid strain. Also, keeping your back neutral (not rounded or hunched) is key to protecting your spine. So yes, there’s room for variation — but also a few essential guidelines to keep your squats safe and effective.

Let’s stop chasing someone else’s perfect squat — and own our own! 💥💪🔥

Join me on the mat for your perfect squat, registering here!

Namaste,

Rob