FitnessVenues.com
 

Barbell squat

Recruiting the majority of the lower muscles during the execution of the lifting including the quadriceps, hamstrings, gluteul muscles, and calfs, it is little wonder why the squat is considered the king of lower body exercises.

Used in competitions as a measure of strength, and one of the three power lifting exercises, the squatting technique is of high importance for many strength athletes to enhancing lift totals.

To perform the squat correctly the upper leg should descend so its becomes parallel to the floor, create a right angle with the lower legs. Some trainers may go lower than this level, although flexibility and balance may become an issue. For those who can not perform the squat down the parallel level it would be advised to use a lesser weight and try placing some weight plates on the floor to let the heels of the foot stand on with the toes on the floor.

Performing barbell squats

When training for muscular size it is often best to train in a rep range of 6-12 repetitions, although there is often much debate on the optimal rep range. It would be advisable to experiment with different ranges to see which suits you.

  • Place barbell on squat rack pins, which are set at a suitable height for you
    to dismount and re-rack safely.
  • Load bar with correct weight. Put on safety collars.
  • Position barbell on back of shoulders, taking a wide grasp on the bar.
  • Dismount barbell carefully, taking a step backwards and positioning feet at
    suitable width stance.
  • Descend with bar, bending at the knees and hip, keeping good posture
    throughout execution. Keep feet flat on floor and back straight throughout
    execution.
  • Stop when upper legs are just below parallel to the ground.
  • Extend knees and hip to standing position again.
  • Repeat for desired amount of repetitions.

Barbell squats courtesy of Fitness Uncovered - Bodybuilding & Fitness

Bookmark and Share

Latest health and fitness news

All news stories

Latest quizzes and tests

All quizzes & tests





Diet & Weight Loss Fitness & Exercise Healthy Living Leisure Jobs UK Reviews Useful Tools

Diets A - Z
Diet planners
Exercise nutrition
Healthy eating
Recipes
Weight management

Celebrity workouts
Exercise library
Exercising
Fitness testing
Kids fitness
Health clubs
Personal training
Sports injury


General health
Health spas
Men's health
Women's health


Choosing a job
Franchising
Job resources
Job search
Training courses

Elite health clubs
Ladies only gyms
Leisure centres
Health clubs
Hotel health clubs
Independent health clubs
Spa breaks

Calculators
Diet planners
Exercise videos
Online personal training
Web chats TV
Keep in touch with Fitness Venues at
Facebook
& Twitter

Home | Advertise | Search by business | Search by county | Local Search | Contact us | What's new? | Site map

About us | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | Our partners

 

Copyright 2006 - 2014 FitnessVenues.com
FitnessVenues.com is the UK's leading health, fitness and exercise guide, allowing you to find health clubs, gyms, personal trainers and more.

Find your local ... Exercise classes | Gyms | Health clubs | Health spas | Personal Trainers | Fitness Trainers | Health clubs by town