On the heels (ha!) of the @Titus_of_Voat post about the Romanian bus rider body weight squats, here's another practice that everyone can benefit from: Horse Stance. The ol' Ma Bu. Horse Stance stance cultivates our body’s proprioception, enhancing overall balance and coordination. Horse Stance execution requires precision and understanding of the fundamentals: Foot Position: The feet are placed wider than shoulder-width apart, with toes pointing forward. The width can vary based on the martial art form but is generally wide enough to provide a stable base. Knee and Hip Alignment: As one squats down, the knees are bent and pushed outwards, aligning with the toes. The hips are pushed back, and the spine remains neutral. Torso Position: The upper body remains upright, with shoulders relaxed and chest open. Arms can be positioned in various ways, depending on the specific exercise or martial art form. Depth: The aim is to lower the body until the thighs are parallel to the ground, resembling the position of straddling a horse. However, depth can vary based on the practitioner’s skill level and flexibility. Benefits of the Horse Stance Leg Strength: Maintaining the horse stance is no easy feat. The static hold engages multiple muscle groups in the legs, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. Regular practice can lead to increased muscle mass and strength in these areas. Endurance: Holding the horse stance for extended periods is a test of endurance. Over time, practitioners find that they can maintain the stance for longer durations, indicating improved muscular endurance. Stability and Balance: The wide base of the horse stance offers tremendous stability. This stability is crucial in martial arts, where swift movements and powerful techniques require a grounded and balanced foundation. Core Engagement: Though the primary focus is on the legs, the horse stance also engages the core. The act of keeping the torso upright while lowering the body requires the abdominal and lower back muscles to activate, leading to a stronger core over time. Flexibility: Regular practice of the horse stance can enhance hip flexibility. The outward push of the knees stretches the inner thighs, benefiting those looking to improve their range of motion.