A Biomechanical Analysis of the Squat Between Competitive Collegiate, Competitive High School, and Novice Powerlifters

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to measure and analyze kinematic differences between competitive collegiate (CLG, n = 9) powerlifters, competitive high school (HS, n = 9) powerlifters, and novice (NV, n = 11) powerlifters during a maximal squat to determine the effect of skill level on performance. All powerlifters performed 3 squats, with the final squat being their 1 repetition maximum. Kinematic data (descent, ascent, total lift times, knee angle magnitude, knee angular velocity, and knee angular acceleration) was measured using 2-dimensional motion analysis equipment. Differences in mean peak kinematic values between the 3 groups were analyzed using a 1-way multivariate analysis of variance, p <or= 0.05. Differences were found between the NV and HS in the time to ascent, the total lift time, the normalized time to peak (NTTP) in knee angular velocity from the "sticking point" to the "lockout," and the NTTP in knee angular acceleration during the ascent. A difference was found between the CLG and HS in the peak knee angular velocity between the bottom of the lift and the sticking point. Differences were also found in the rate of acceleration upward after coming out of "the hole" between the CLG and NV and CLG and HS. A difference was found in the rate of peak deceleration upward to the sticking point between the CLG and NV. To avoid injury and to achieve optimum results in powerlifting, lifting technique must be optimized. The HS and NV accumulated several significant differences in NTTP during the ascending phase. However, the major finding between the 3 groups was in the rate of acceleration upward after coming out of the hole. Coaches should focus their training programs on increasing strength in unskilled powerlifters for the purpose of increasing acceleration from the bottom of the lift.

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“…Evaluation of the training logs and performance testing were conducted by certified strength and conditioning specialists that reinforced proper technique and form during the testing. Considering the skill and technique necessary for performing the squat exercise, many competitive and recreational resistance trained athletes do not perform this exercise correctly [30]. It is likely that the resistance training experience of the subjects resulted in a relative high level of performance in the bench press exercise.…”

The Back Squat

“…In addition, incorrect descent mechanics may also be noted if the athlete does not maintain constant speed and control during the entire eccentric phase, which is particularly common in novice lifters. (31) Furthermore, a common mechanical deficit is for athletes to place load down on the anterior aspect of the knees rather than back on the hips during decent (Figure 17). Typically this incorrect strategy can be observed with, but not limited to, excessive tibial progression angle (Criteria 6) and/or heels coming off of the ground (Criteria 7).…”

“…(20) In particular, the back squat can be used to assess an individual for neuromuscular control, strength, stability, and mobility within the kinetic chain. (1, 4, 10, 31, 39, 42)…”

The Back Squat

“…The athlete should avoid descending too rapidly or “collapsing” due to the loss of eccentric control near the apex of depth. (15) Strengthening exercises that focus on the eccentric control of the lower extremities can help correct this particular deficit. Additional strength or mobility deficits in the trunk, hip and lower extremity musculature may impair proper descent.…”