Exercise Technique

June 8, 2008

Squatting Technique

Check out this article on T-Nation by Mike Robertson on squatting technique:

10 Tips for Flawless Squatting

The article is geared to the more serious lifter, but these guidelines apply to lifters of all levels–both males and females.

I’ll list the 10 tips below, and you can find further explanation by checking out the link above.

  1. Hands In - Working your hands in creates a shelf to rest the bar on, and reinforces proper form.
  2. Back Together and Tight -see above
  3. Comfortable Stance, Toes Slightly Out - Experiment with the width of your stance. People with longer torsos and shorter legs tend to prefer a wider stance while those with shorter torsos and longer legs are better off going narrow.
  4. Weight Balanced - Keep your weight over your mid foot or slightly toward the heel.
  5. Chest Up, Low Back Tight - Essential for form and lower back health.
  6. Focus on a Spot - Pick something eye-level (don’t look down). You may have to face away from the mirror.
  7. Big Breath, Core Tight* - More important for powerlifters; helps stability
  8. Sit Back - Activates those glutes and hamstrings!
  9. Knees Out - Keeps you in proper alignment, activates hip muscles
  10. Speed* - a useful technique for powerlifters

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