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🦵 Wall Sits

Wall Sits are an intermediate knee exercise that targets the quadriceps, glutes, and core. Lean against a wall and slide down into a partial squat. Builds quad endurance. They're commonly prescribed during rehabilitation for ACL Reconstruction and Patellofemoral Pain, and for general conditioning. Below is how to perform Wall Sits with correct form, plus the benefits, common mistakes, and how many reps to aim for.

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Benefits of the Wall Sits

  • Strengthens and activates the quadriceps, glutes, and core
  • Improves strength
  • Improves endurance
  • Supports recovery and rehab for ACL Reconstruction and Patellofemoral Pain
  • Great for general conditioning and everyday strength
  • Can be done with simple equipment (wall)
  • Performed standing, so it's easy to set up

How to do the Wall Sits

  1. Stand with your back flat against a wall
  2. Walk your feet out about 2 feet from the wall
  3. Slowly slide down until knees bent 45-60°
  4. Keep knees directly above ankles
  5. Hold for 20 seconds
  6. Slide back up slowly

How many reps & sets

A common starting point is 3 sets of 5 reps, holding each for about 20 seconds. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.

Form tips

  • Don't go below 90° initially
  • Keep equal weight on both legs
  • Engage core throughout

Muscles worked

Quadriceps, Glutes, Core

When to be cautious

  • Pain behind kneecap
  • Unstable knee without brace

Who should do the Wall Sits?

Wall Sits are often included in programs for people recovering from ACL Reconstruction and Patellofemoral Pain, as well as anyone training for general conditioning, and for anyone wanting to strengthen the knee. They're rated intermediate.

Wall Sits — FAQ

What muscles do Wall Sits work?
Wall Sits primarily target the quadriceps, glutes, and core.
How many sets and reps of Wall Sits should I do?
A common starting point is 3 sets of 5 reps, holding each for about 20 seconds. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.
Are Wall Sits good for ACL Reconstruction?
Yes — Wall Sits are commonly used in rehab for ACL Reconstruction and Patellofemoral Pain. Confirm with your clinician before starting, especially if you have pain.
Do I need equipment for Wall Sits?
You'll need: wall.
When should I avoid Wall Sits?
Take care or skip them if you have: pain behind kneecap and unstable knee without brace. When in doubt, check with your physiotherapist.
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