There’s always time for a few squats

Submit your best clip for a chance to win $500! #crimsondesert #pcgamerclips

https://www.pcgamer.com

X: https://x.com/pcgamer TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pcgamer_mag Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pcgamer_mag/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pcgamermagazine/ Forum: https://forums.pcgamer.com/

To subscribe to the magazine in the US, UK, or elsewhere, visit magazines direct.

PC Gamer is the global authority on PC games. For over 30 years, we’ve been at the forefront of covering PC gaming with worldwide print editions, around-the-clock news, features, esports coverage, hardware testing, and game reviews, as well as our popular PC Gaming Shows.

There’s always time for a few squats

In a world that moves at the speed of notifications, carving out time for physical movement can feel like a luxury. Yet the simplest, most reliable workout—squats—asks for nothing more than intention and a few minutes of commitment. The beauty of squats lies in their practicality: they require no equipment, can be performed almost anywhere, and engage multiple muscle groups to deliver real, tangible benefits.

First, consider the efficiency. A short daily squat routine taps into the large muscles of the thighs and glutes, which are among the body’s most metabolically active tissues. Regular execution elevates heart rate, supports joint health, and promotes better posture by reinforcing muscular balance around the hips and spine. For those pressed for time, a 5- to 10-minute session can be just as impactful as a longer workout when performed with proper form and consistency.

Second, the accessibility is empowering. Squats scale to fit any fitness level: bodyweight squats for beginners, tempo variations for seasoned exercisers, and weighted squats for those seeking increased resistance. The movement also translates well into functional daily activities—sitting, standing, lifting, and climbing—helping to reduce fatigue and improve overall mobility.

Third, the mindset matters. The idea that “there’s always time” begins with removing friction. Schedule a recurring reminder, fill a small space with just enough room for a few repetitions, and treat squats as a non-negotiable daily habit. Even on busy days, a quick set between meetings or at the end of a long commute can reset energy, sharpen focus, and nudge your physiology toward a healthier trajectory.

In practice, a balanced squat routine can be simple and scalable:

Begin with a warm-up: 2 minutes of light activity and mobility work for the hips, ankles, and lower back. – Choose a comfortable starting point: 2–3 sets of 8–12 bodyweight squats. – Progress thoughtfully: increase reps gradually, add tempo (a 3-second descent, 1-second pause, 2-second rise), or introduce resistance with dumbbells or a kettlebell as strength improves. – Prioritize form: feet shoulder-width apart, knees tracking over the toes, chest up, and weight distributed through the heels. Avoid rounding the spine or letting the knees cave inward.

Consistency trumps intensity. A modest, repeatable routine yields better results than sporadic, high-intensity efforts. By reframing squats as a reliable daily anchor rather than a temporary challenge, you can cultivate a sustainable habit that supports energy, resilience, and long-term health.

Ultimately, there is always time for a few squats. They are an efficient, adaptable, and accessible tool—one that fits the rhythm of a demanding schedule while delivering meaningful physical and mental benefits.