Friday, April 6, 2007

Learn to Squat

Weight Training Tips



Squatting is an essential component of any weightlifters training. If you do not have the squat in you weight training program you do not have much of a weight routine because it may be the the single best exercise for leg strength and development. Many people shy away from the squat for a host of reasons:
it is bad for you
it is difficult and dangerous
it is bad for your knees and back
and on and on

If the squat is taught incorrectly, or not at all which is common it can be dangerous and intimidating, but done properly the squat is a safe and effective exercise.

Squatting significantly strengthens many muscles in the body particularly the muscles responsible for knee and hip extension, which include the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. In addition to lower body strength a great deal of the smaller stabilizing muscles are necessary such as the core musculature.



I think one of the most important points in the video is in regards to posture and load. If you cannot maintain proper aliment of the spine stop and reduce the weight. Many people use too much weight when they squat this limits range and often causes mechanical flaws.

Included is a video on proper back squat technique. The author of the video is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and an Olympic Weightlifting competitor at the Master's level.

Only use a belt for near max and max lifts. Do not use a belt as part of your warm up. I have seen so many high school kids do this and the coaches are just setting their kids up for problems. A belt is for max and near max lifts only.

Enjoy



All the best in your weight and programs.
Jason, CSCS

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