Knee training, also known as knee-dominant training, has several benefits over toe-dominant training. One of the main advantages is that it can help to reduce the risk of injury. This is because knee-dominant exercises such as squats and lunges place less stress on the joints and tendons than toe-dominant exercises such as calf raises and leg press.
Another benefit of knee training is that it may help to reduce the incidence of ACL tears. The ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) is a ligament in the knee that is often injured in sports such as soccer and basketball. Knee-dominant exercises such as squats and lunges can help to strengthen the muscles around the knee, which can in turn help to protect the ACL from injury.
In addition to reducing the risk of injury, knee training can also lead to better performance. Knee-dominant exercises such as squats and lunges target the quadriceps and hamstrings, which are two of the largest muscle groups in the body. By strengthening these muscles, knee training can help to improve overall power, strength and athletic performance.
Knee-dominant exercises can also help to improve balance and coordination. When performing squats, lunges and step-ups, you are using your whole body to stabilize your movement. This helps to improve proprioception, which is the body’s ability to sense its position in space. This can lead to better balance and coordination, which can be beneficial for athletes and older adults.
However, it is important to note that knee-dominant training is not the only type of training that should be done. To achieve optimal results, a well-rounded training program should also include exercises that target the toes and the ankle, such as calf raises and leg press. This will help to ensure that all of the muscles in the lower body are being worked and that there is a balance between knee-dominant and toe-dominant exercises.
In conclusion, knee training has several benefits over toe-dominant training. It can help to reduce the risk of injury, reduce the incidence of ACL tears, and lead to better performance. By incorporating knee-dominant exercises such as squats and lunges into your workout routine, you can help to improve your overall fitness and athletic performance. However, it is important to balance your training program with exercises that target the toes and the ankle to achieve optimal results.