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🦵 Mini Squats (45°)

The Mini Squats (45°) is an intermediate knee exercise that targets the quadriceps, glutes, and hamstrings. Partial squats to build functional strength. Only go to 45° knee bend initially. It's commonly prescribed during rehabilitation for ACL Reconstruction, Meniscus Repair, and Patellofemoral Pain, and for general conditioning. Below is how to perform the Mini Squats (45°) with correct form, plus the benefits, common mistakes, and how many reps to aim for.

KneeIntermediateNone3 × 12

Benefits of the Mini Squats (45°)

  • Strengthens and activates the quadriceps, glutes, and hamstrings
  • Improves strength
  • Improves stability
  • Supports recovery and rehab for ACL Reconstruction, Meniscus Repair, and Patellofemoral Pain
  • Great for general conditioning and everyday strength
  • Can be done at home with no equipment
  • Performed standing, so it's easy to set up

How to do the Mini Squats (45°)

  1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart
  2. Hold a chair for balance if needed
  3. Slowly bend your knees to about 45°
  4. Keep your weight through your heels
  5. Push back up to standing

How many reps & sets

A common starting point is 3 sets of 12 reps. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.

Form tips

  • Imagine sitting back into a chair
  • Knees track over toes
  • Progress depth gradually

Muscles worked

Quadriceps, Glutes, Hamstrings

When to be cautious

  • Significant knee instability
  • Pain during the movement

Who should do the Mini Squats (45°)?

The Mini Squats (45°) is often included in programs for people recovering from ACL Reconstruction, Meniscus Repair, and Patellofemoral Pain, as well as anyone training for general conditioning, and for anyone wanting to strengthen the knee. It's rated intermediate.

Mini Squats (45°) — FAQ

What muscles does the Mini Squats (45°) work?
The Mini Squats (45°) primarily targets the quadriceps, glutes, and hamstrings.
How many sets and reps of the Mini Squats (45°) should I do?
A common starting point is 3 sets of 12 reps. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.
Is the Mini Squats (45°) good for ACL Reconstruction?
Yes — the Mini Squats (45°) is commonly used in rehab for ACL Reconstruction and Meniscus Repair. Confirm with your clinician before starting, especially if you have pain.
Do I need equipment for the Mini Squats (45°)?
No — the Mini Squats (45°) needs no equipment and can be done at home.
When should I avoid the Mini Squats (45°)?
Take care or skip it if you have: significant knee instability and pain during the movement. When in doubt, check with your physiotherapist.
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