Squatting – more specifically deep squatting is an active resting position and is good for us. Most people in the developed world don’t squat regularly. I thought it would be interesting to look at why that is and why we should return to having this ability.
Squatting is an active resting position that humans have used throughout our evolutionary history – until recently. Deep squatting is keeping your feet flat on the floor and knees bent all the way, with your bum hovering just about the ground – this is good for us. Nowadays, sitting is the preferred resting position in the most developed world.
“lived on average three years longer than those who couldn’t.”
Why did we lose the ability to Squat?
Reason 1: Changes in toilet design
Before modern societies developed, our toilet was a hole in the ground. This therefore would have required us to get into a deep squatting position multiple times during the day. You wouldn’t want to lose the ability to do this as your life would have suddenly become more challenging. These days, seated toilets are the norm, this eliminates the need to squat.
Here is a history of toilet development:
- 4000 B.C., the Mesopotamians invented the toilet.
- In the 16th century, the British Tudors started using throne-like toilets.
- In 1775, Alexander Cummings invented the S-bend pipe – this prevented gas produced by whatever went down the toilet from flowing back up.
- In 1858 following cholera outbreaks and the construction of the sewer system, seated toilets were widespread in London. This then spread across Europe.
“Contrary to popular belief, squatting will not wear out your joints.”
Reason 2: Cultural aversion
I felt like I had to come up with another reason and could only think of this, I’m sure there is some truth here. Being in a deep squat position while talking to someone would be seen as inappropriate, this hasn’t always been the case.
Why we should start squatting again?
Reason 1: Joint Health.
Contrary to popular belief, squatting will not wear out your joints. A lubricant called synovial fluid that supplies nutrients to the joint is stimulated to be released when you use the joint. The act of compression on the joint while squatting does this. When the joints aren’t be used enough, the body stops creating synovial fluid and we feel stiff and creaky.
Reason 2: Bowel Health.
In a squat position the hips are flexed, there is less strain on the body during bowel movements. There are products you can use to help you get into the squat position (Squatty Potty or Lillipad).
“Squats send neurological signals that are vital in producing new, healthy brain cells.”
Reason 3: General Health.
Having a robust musculoskeletal system that can squat unaided is good for our health generally. A study found that people who could do this lived on average three years longer than those who couldn’t.
Reason 4: Better quality of life.
Being able to move, bend down and feel strong is the building blocks to an enjoyable life. You can do your favourite hobby or bend down to lift your grandchild with ease or without the worry of you straining your back.
Reason 5: Mental Health.
A study published in the journal Frontiers In Neuroscience found that weight-bearing leg exercises like squats send neurological signals that are vital in producing new, healthy brain cells. Those cells can then improve your critical thinking and overall cognitive function.
January 20th, 2023. Andrew Horide, Osteopath