What’s Stopping Your Squat?

Upright Health
Upright HealthApr 25, 2026

Why It Matters

Improved squat mobility reduces injury risk and expands demand for mobility‑focused fitness programs and ergonomic products, a growing segment in the wellness industry.

Key Takeaways

  • Deep Asian squat requires hip, hamstring, ankle flexibility and strength
  • Daily practice and specific stretches can improve squat depth over time
  • Repeated Position Practice (RPP) trains muscles to control squat posture
  • Benefits include better mobility, leg strength, and functional independence
  • Simple home routine: assisted squat, hamstring stretch, hip‑flexor work

Summary

The video tackles the common inability of many Westerners to perform a deep Asian (primal) squat, debunking the myth that genetics make it impossible and positioning the squat as a functional movement worth mastering.

The presenter explains that achieving the squat demands flexibility in the hamstrings, glutes, adductors, hip flexors, calves and spinal stabilizers, and introduces the concept of Repeated Position Practice (RPP) – training muscles by repeatedly assuming the squat posture. He outlines three core exercises: a bent‑knee hamstring/glute stretch, assisted deep‑squat repetitions, and hip‑flexor lifts, each to be performed daily or several times a week.

He shares personal anecdotes – once unable to squat despite being Asian – and uses humor (“increase IQ by 20%”) to keep the tone light. Practical tips include removing shoes before sitting, using a wall for support, and experimenting with foot width to target different muscle groups.

Mastering the Asian squat translates into greater hip mobility, leg strength, and the ability to sit comfortably without chairs, benefits that appeal to aging consumers, workplace ergonomics providers, and the booming at‑home fitness market.

Original Description

Can’t squat deep?
It’s probably not your genetics.
I couldn’t do the Asian squat either — so I spent years figuring out what actually limits it. This 2-hour guide pulls together the most effective exercises and concepts to help you rebuild your squat step by step.
We'll cover:
• What’s really stopping your squat
• How to build strength in deep positions
• Simple drills to improve your mobility and control
👉 It’s not about forcing depth.
👉 It’s about making your body strong enough to own it.
CHAPTERS
00:00:00 - Start
00:00:25 - Westerners can’t Asian Squat
00:01:03 - Why You Can’t Asian Squat
00:07:32 - Daily Hack for Deeper Squats
00:08:06 - 3 Exercises You Need for a Deep Squat
00:13:31 - Foot Position
00:14:29 - When You Fall Doing the Asian Squat
00:20:22 - Hip Flexor Strength
00:21:10 - Ankle Mobility and Strength for Asian Squat
00:30:37 - Pants
00:31:14 - When You Can’t Stand Back Up from Asian Squat
00:37:30 - Easy Squat Practice
00:38:29 - Follow Along Workout
00:47:07 - Big Deep Squat Mistake
00:47:47 - Follow Along Gentle Hip Stretch
01:04:50 - High Octane Hip Stretch
01:16:54 - Two Sneaky Habits for a Deep Squat
01:32:45 - Glute Exercises and Hip Pain from Asian Squat
01:41:22 - Abs in Deep Squats
01:53:26 - Deep Squat Mythology and Internal Rotation
02:02:30 - Spinal Strength
02:08:40 - When Old People Try to Asian Squat
02:23:35 - Closing
SOCIALS
DISCLAIMER
The information presented in this video is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. The presenter is not a licensed medical professional, and all content is provided for general educational purposes only. By choosing to participate in any exercises or recommendations, you acknowledge that you do so voluntarily and assume all associated risks. Consult your healthcare provider prior to beginning any new exercise or health program, especially if you have ongoing health conditions or concerns.
#AsianSquat #DeepSquat #HipMobility #SquatFix #UprightHealth

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