Squats are one of the best-known exercises for building stronger legs, but that doesn’t mean they’re suitable for everyone. If you find squatting difficult because of stiff knees, limited mobility, or balance concerns, there are some great alternatives you can try — so you don’t have to miss out on building that all-important lower-body strength.

As we age, strong legs help us manage everyday activities like climbing stairs, getting up from a chair, and walking independently. And while squats are an effective way to train several lower-body muscles at once, they’re not the only option. Other exercises can also strengthen your thighs, hips and calves, without requiring you to lower your body into a deep squat.

Below, we’ve rounded up five alternative moves to help you build stronger legs. They can be adapted to different fitness levels, with options to use a sturdy chair or wall for extra support where needed.

The goal is to find exercises that feel comfortable for your body, while helping you maintain the strength and stability you rely on every day. Give the exercises below a try and you should start to notice a difference.

If bending your knees deeply feels uncomfortable, seated leg extensions are a useful alternative for strengthening your quadriceps — the muscles at the front of your thighs. These muscles help straighten your knees and play an important role in everyday activities like walking and climbing the stairs. Best of all, you can practice them without having to support your full body weight.

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