Soccer Moms and Knee Lunges

[shark taco]

I just got in an argument with a "trainer" at my gym. My argument is that non-athletes should not be doing knee lunges. My theory is that knee lunges hurt knee ligaments by forcing too much weight onto 90 degree angle in the knee; you're forcing the patella to shoot straight out. I've also heard that most high-schools outlawed knee lunges to do injury rates. Am I right or wrong? Again, I'm not talking about athletic types doing this, I'm talking about Soccer Moms in the gym doing knee lunges. Thanks.

 

[P-funk]

you are wrong. How does it make the patella shoot out?? the ligaments are strengthened in this position, allowing for great stabalization of the knee and the patella.

 

[ponyboy]

Plus a lunge is one of the most functional movements you can do with your lower body. Think about those soccer moms lunging after their kids, stepping forward with heavy grocery bags and having to dodge dog leashes. I know it sounds silly, but lunging is good for everyone IMO. I teach 52 year old women how to lunge and it only helps them build stability and support around their knees and hips and ankles, especially from different angles - you just have to be careful and build them up slowly.

 

[P-funk]

yeah, I teach everyone how to lunge.....no matter what the age or athletiv ability. It is really important in my opinion as well.

 

[Squaggleboggin]

Could someone give a link to the proper form for lunges? I've avoided doing them (although I do squats and deads) because I don't really like them and I'm not sure on the correct form to use.