The Slavic squat, or "Slav squat," is a specific deep squatting posture with both cultural and physical significance. It has become a popular internet meme but is also a traditional and practical position in many parts of Eastern Europe and Russia.
The Physical Posture
A true Slavic squat has three key elements:
-
Heels Flat: This is the most crucial part. The entire sole of the foot, including the heels, must remain flat on the ground.
-
Knees Splayed: The knees are pushed out to the sides, often wider than shoulder-width, with the buttocks lowered between the feet, close to the ground.
-
Upright Back: The back is kept relatively straight and upright, maintaining balance in the low position.
This deep squat is a natural resting posture for many people around the world, but many Westerners lose the flexibility to perform it due to a sedentary lifestyle and the use of chairs and heeled shoes.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The Slavic squat has deep roots in the region's history and social customs:
-
A Practical Resting Position: In many post-Soviet and rural areas, public benches or clean places to sit were not always available. The deep squat became a practical, comfortable way to rest or socialize on sidewalks, train platforms, or in parks without sitting directly on the ground.
-
Prison and Street Culture: The squat is also associated with Russian and Eastern European prison culture, where it was a way to avoid sitting on the cold, dirty ground. This association led to its adoption by the "gopnik" subculture—a stereotype of young, working-class men often seen in Adidas tracksuits and engaging in street culture.
-
Internet Meme: In the 2010s, photos and videos of people in this pose, often accompanied by tracksuits and hard-bass music, became a widely shared internet meme. Phrases like "Heels on ground, comrade found. Heels in sky, western spy," humorously highlight the importance of the flat-footed technique.
Health Benefits
From a physical standpoint, the Slavic squat is an excellent exercise and a natural human posture. Regularly performing it can help:
-
Improve ankle mobility and hip flexibility.
-
Strengthen the muscles of the lower body and core.
-
It is considered a good stretch that can help relieve back pain caused by prolonged sitting.
