Lower Extremity Strength and the Range of Motion in Relation to Squat Depth

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine which variables of the range of motion (ROM) and strength of the hip, and ankle are associated with squat depth. In total, 101 healthy subjects (64 males, 37 females) participated in the study. Outcome measures consisted of the ROM of hip flexion, hip internal rotation, external rotation, ankle dorsiflexion with an extended and flexed knee joint, and strength of the hip flexor and ankle dorsiflexor. Squat depth was measured using SIMI motion analysis software. Pearson correlation was used to determine the relationship between variables and squat depth. Multiple stepwise regression analysis was performed to determine variables associated with squat depth. The multiple regression model indicated that ankle dorsiflexion with a flexed knee and the hip flexion ROM were significantly associated with squat depth in male subjects (R2 = 0.435) and ankle dorsiflexion with an extended knee and dorsiflexor strength were significantly associated with squat depth in female subjects (R2 = 0.324). Thus, exercises to increase the ROM of the ankle dorsiflexion, hip flexion, and dorsiflexor strength can be recommended to improve squat performance. Future studies should assess an increased ROM of the ankle dorsiflexion, hip flexion, or dorsiflexor strength effect on deep squat performance.

Effects of barbell back squat stance width on sagittal and frontal hip and knee kinetics

“…The effect of co‐contraction between the WIDE and NARROW barbell back squat positions at parallel depth is still slightly unclear. To our knowledge, no modeling studies have been performed on the topic, and all but McGaw & Melrose of the previous studies comparing barbell back squat widths while utilizing electromyography (EMG) has not standardized depth further than informing the participant to go “as deep as possible”, a variable that can arguably vary significantly within athletic populations . The potential negative effects of co‐contraction on movement velocity during the ascent phase do not appear to be significant, based on the similar times of ascent phase performance (Table ).…”

Relationship between Muscle Torque and Performance in Special and Specific Exercises in Young Weightlifters

“…Relationships between pairs of data are often explored using the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient [24,25], which is a method we applied in the current study. Apart from calculating Pearson's R, we also used regression equations.…”

As Essential as Brushing Your Teeth: The Deep Squat

“…1 Implementing patient joint-specific mobilizations such as cat-camel 17 ( fig. 2a-b) and movement transitions from that position into "rock back"…”

“…The ability to descend into the deep squat as described above and move within it requires a healthy mix of joint mobility, stability, strength, and coordination. 1 Priming the body for the deep squat, and utilizing it as much as possible, creates an opportunity for improved function and overall mobility. …”