The effect of squats on muscle activity in standing, kneeling, and half-kneeling positions: A cross-sectional study

Kneeling and half-kneeling training are common positions used in physical therapy. however, research on lower extremity muscle activity is lacking compared to the ergonomic aspects and trunk muscle activity. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects on lower extremity muscle activity during squats in kneeling and half-kneeling positions. The study was designed as a cross-sectional study with a single group of healthy adults. Participants were instructed to perform squats while assuming 3 positions (standing, kneeling, and half-kneeling). Surface electromyography data were recorded 3 times from the rectus femoris (RF), gluteus maximus (GMax), gluteus medius (GMed), and biceps femoris (BF) on the participant's dominant side, and the mean values were analyzed. The participants performed squats for 9 seconds, with 4 seconds of the descent phase, 1 second of the maintenance phase, and 4 seconds of the ascent phase. A metronome was used to ensure precise timing. The study included 30 participants (19 males and 11 females). The muscle activities of the RF, GMed, and BF showed statistically significant differences among the 3 positions, being highest in the half-kneeling position (HKP), followed by the standing position (SP) and kneeling position (KP). The muscle activity of the GMax was significantly higher in the HKP than in the SP and KP (P < .05). The co-contraction ratio was significantly higher with KP than with the SP and HKP (P < .05). In the SP and KP, there were statistically significant differences between the ascent and descent phases of the RF, GMax, GMed, and BF (P < .05). In the HKP, there were statistically significant differences between the ascent and descent phases of the RF, GMax, and GMed (P < .05). The results of this study indicate that squats in the HKP (especially during the ascent phase) require the highest muscle activity, whereas squats in the KP (especially during the descent phase) can be performed with the lowest muscle activity. It can be concluded that these findings could serve as selective indicators for squat exercises and in enhancing postural control, muscle strength, and lower extremity stabilization.