I remember the first time I backpacked in Thailand in 1998 it was commonplace to find the Thais doing the Asian Squat. They did it with so much ease I remember thinking it must be easy to do.
I was wrong. I soon realized this when I first got introduced to the squat toilet.
For Thais, this was no problem as they could easily do the Asian Squat, for me I had to do what I now discovered is a hybrid Asian / Slav Squat.
Since moving to Malaysia I see people easily doing the Asian Squat every day, including my wife and kids, and so I thought I would research why this relatively simple move is impossible to do.
What is the Asian Squat?
The Asian squat is a variation of the traditional squat that is often used in Asia for sitting on the floor or using the toilet.
The Asian squat is used while performing everyday tasks, such as eating, reading, smoking, doing the laundry, talking on the phone, and even for squat toilets.
The Asian squat is not so much used for training in Asia but is a common resting position.
Spending time with my inlaws I often see them doing the Asian squat. And when I try the Asian squat it looks more like Charlie Chaplin squatting.
After researching how to do the Asian squat I realized I was doing a slav squat instead.
Asian Squat vs. Slav Squat: What’s the Difference?
There are two main types of squats: the Asian squat and the Slav squat. The Asian squat is done by sitting back on your heels, while the Slav squat is done by sitting down between your feet, with the feet often pointing outwards.
The Asian squat is said to be better for your knees, as it puts less pressure on them. It also works your glutes and hamstrings more, which can give you a rounder butt.
The Slav squat is said to work your quads more, making them stronger.
Photo credit the Strand
The Benefits of the Asian Squat
The Asian squat is a posture that has many benefits for the body.
When done correctly, it can improve flexibility, increase blood flow, and strengthen the muscles and joints in the legs, hips, and buttocks.
Additionally, it can help to improve balance and coordination.
Dangers of the Asian Squat
Although the Asian squat can be more comfortable and efficient than sitting in a chair, there are dangers to the Asian squat that people should be aware of.
When sitting in the Asian squat position, the knees are bent and the feet are flat on the ground. This position puts a lot of pressure on the knees and can cause pain and discomfort. It can also lead to knee injuries.
In addition, when sitting in this position, the back is not supported which can lead to back pain. The muscles in the back have to work harder to keep the spine in alignment, which can cause fatigue and back problems.
The Asian squat is not recommended for people with health conditions such as back pain, knee pain, or obesity.
How to do the Asian Squat?
The Asian squat is a low-impact exercise that can be done anywhere with no equipment needed.
This exercise is great for beginners because it's simple and easy to follow.
- Start by standing with your feet hip-width apart and your toes pointing forward.
- Bend your knees and lower your body downward, as if you were going to sit in a chair. Keep your back straight and don't let your knees go past your toes.
- Hold this position for 10 seconds, then slowly raise yourself back up to the starting position. Repeat 10 times.
Why Can't Everyone Do the Asian Squat?
There are a few things that will make doing the Asian squat difficult for most people.
Greater Flexibility
The Asian squatting position for most people is much deeper than the squatting position used in most western exercises. This deeper squat requires more flexibility and practice to be able to perform properly
Increased Pressure on Knees and Hips
The Asian squatting position puts a lot of pressure on the knees and hips, especially if you're not used to it.
Feet Closer Together
Many Asians stand with their feet close together, giving them less range of motion overall compared to someone who squats with their feet wider apart.
Leg Length
Many Asians have shorter legs than Caucasians and therefore often have difficulty reaching the ground with their toes.
Abdominal and Thigh Muscle Stength
Many Asians use a lot of abdominal and thigh muscles when squatting which can make it difficult for those who are not used to this type of muscular engagement.
Practice
Mastering the Asian squat can take time and effort and many Asians are squatting as kids throughout old age, but with some practice, it becomes easier and more rewarding.
Despite all these factors, there are some people who can do the Asian squat with relative ease.
Ready for the Asian Squat Challenge?
I have noticed how my levels of flexibility have decreased as I get older and so learning how to do the Asian Squat gives me an opportunity to work on this.
Everyone can learn how to squat deep with enough practice and mobility work – so I have set myself the challenge of performing the Asian Squat.
At the very least I expect to improve my leg mobility and I may even be able to use the squat toilets in Asia without going into uncomfortable shakes!