Instructions: This exercise combines cardio fitness with strength training. Begin with arms at your sides, feet together. Bend your knees and jump into a wide stance. At the same time bend your elbows as you lift your arms. Keep wrists straight with fingers pointed up. Return to the start position.
Benefits: The Jumping Jack Squat is a bodyweight exercise that Improves cardio, strengthens thighs, and shoulders.
Overuse Cautions: The Jumping Jack Squat is an impact exercise. Consider the amount of impact exercises you do on a weekly basis, and take into account the long-range effect it will have on your knees. Here’s a link to an article from John’s Hopkins Medicine about overuse and Jumper’s Knee (Patellar Tendonitis). LINK
Alternatives: Practice wide squats without jumping.
EXERCISE DOs and DONTs – As with all exercise programs, when using exercise videos that appear on this site, you need to use common sense. If your muscles are weak, either do the modifications, or don’t attempt this exercise if it’s too difficult for you. When starting an exercise program, be sure to discuss your plans with your healthcare provider
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