***** Chill, man. I meant that this dude's legs are like oak trees and even his beard could squat more than I (and you) can. If he wants to wear his hair in a bow, that's his call and I'm totally fine with it.
It's true, I was doing squats bending my knees the wrong way and my physiotherapist asked me to show her how I do squats. She was like "no wonder your knees are bad..." And my knees are no longer sore doing squats, ever.
Are you joking? Why would I mean harm? You started commenting on my post telling me I was wrong and don't know what I am doing. I figured you misunderstood me, and I tried to clarify yet you continue to go off on a tangent. You make belittling assumptions that are unfounded, and I have only made comments based on your own words. But now I see now this is kind of your MO.
Chris Califano Agreed. The way he teaches is straight to the point and easy to understand. I would have no issues paying him as a trainer if he were in my gym.
Couldn't think of a good name so i guess this is it Lifting heavy releases growth hormone, making all muscles grow. Someone who only low bar squats, will have bigger biceps than someone who only does bicep curls. As far as showing viany biceps, you need to get to sub 7-8% body fat. No sarcasm.
Oddly enough, this video helped me with ice-skating. In one ice-skating technique I kept falling backwards, and I didn't know why I couldn't bend deeper without falling backwards. Now I know--tight ankles. Very informational video.
This is one of the best "low budget", hell fuck it, most high budget videos aren't anywhere near as good as this. Alan Thrall, thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge!
new update: alan released a relatively newer video where he says it doesn't matter WHICH squat you use. the high bar and low bar squats are both perfectly fine. do what feels most comfortable/natural for you.
the garbage productive in what way? I think overhead dumbbell squat has the most ability transfer, but you may be able to lift the most weight with low back squat
I've watched this video multiple times already and it's the reason why I subscribed to your channel. Hope everything is going well for you and thank you for putting out such awesome content.
Never realized how much I was doing wrong....I'm subscribed to many fitness channels and never had someone break it down like this. Appreciate the information.....Subscribed!!!!
This video is fantastic. You obviously have a good knowledge of body mechanics, and your experience definitely shows. I know next to nothing about squatting, but this video is so logical, well thought-out, and easy to follow, that I think I can give it a shot :) This is how a video tutorial should be!
Hi Alan, your instructions on squats are the most informative and solid I be come across so far, and I can really relate to the outcomes of the mistakes or small adjustments to the postures like ankle angle or hand placements, this video simply clears my mind up. Great job and thank you!
You got a subscriber after this video. Incredibly well demonstrated, articulated, and versed. I almost always find something to complain about when watching any type of technical explanation video. Your understanding of biomechanics is on point. It is rare to see someone so well educated and giving out instruction. I have studied fitness, biomechanics, biochemicstry, and physiology for years. This is by far the best, most accurate, and most informative squat instructional video i have come across in four years. Thank you sir.
This is best how-to squat video I've seen. It's very easy to understand and has helped me find things in my squat that need to be improved. Great job Alan!
you sir, are awesome!! :) I opened up the video and was skeptical about watching a "how to" video 26 mins long :p :D but ohhhh boy am i glad i watched this!! :)
Great video, Man what a relief, i always squated on the smithmachine because i never could do the normal squat properly whitout worrying if my knees were really behind the big toe of my feet, i noticed this on one of your movements at a particular time in your video, that it isn't a mortal sin if the knees sticks out for maybe one or two centimeters and i also saw that squating that deep is not bad for the knees either, man this kept me avoiding the normal squat for years. Thanks a lot mr. Thrall, thank you.
This is hands down the most useful info I have had on squats. I have been low bar squatting for a few months now and I now notice that I need to change a few things. It is good that you made a lengthy video rather than making a short one like most other youtuber's who are aiming for a bigger viewership(lower duration videos usually result into more views even though the video itself might not prove useful) and I am glad that it paid off for you as well. Can't thank you enough!
What an incredibly informative video, thank you so much for putting this together man - I've always had real difficulty squatting. My evening's now dedicated to binging on your channel. Sincerely thank you again Alan - all the best mate.
This video may have saved my lifting career. Have always been doing a low bar squat in a high bar position (moving hips back first in high bar stance) and it has caused terrible (possibly serious) back pain. Since then, I've been trying front squats and they've been my saving grace. Now understanding that a high bar is essentially a front squat, I might be able to squat heavy pain free. Hitting squats later tonight and trying these tips out. Also, romaleos just came in today so those should help as well. Thanks Alan for a very useful video. I'm sure others learned a lot as well.
+SwimShady I sincerely recommend you to check out Kelly Starrett's "becoming the supple leopard", which is an execellent book for form, self-massage therapy, trigger points, Myofascial release etc. etc.... But mostly what I suggest you to do is push your hips back to a certain degree -WITHOUT ENGAGING YOUR PSOAS - and then squat down with your legs. This is because, while butt wink is not really an issue, since you are having low back pain, if you overextend like Alan does in this video you could exacerbate the problem or just simply slow down your healing process... I'm not saying it's wrong, I'm just saying that it might not be optimal for everybody. Check out omar isuf and silent mike's low bar squat to better understand what I mean.
+Michele Feltre thanks for the reply and helpful information. My squat session from that day I experimented with front, high, and low bar squats and everything felt off (haven't squatted in over a month). Thinking I used to drive hip backs like a low bar, you'd think low bar would be more comfortable. However, squat session today I focused on high bar and "breaking at the knees" cue helped tremendously. No pain and felt great. Will look into incorporating low bar, but for now will probably stick with high bar and master it cause it felt so damn good to squat pain free.
Thanks a lot from Germany - may the best "how to squat-video" I saw until yet. The comparison between high bar and low bar is great. The pictures and the the spoken words make things clear. Here you can see how important it is, that somebody is not only strong but also able to explain it perfectly.
Thank you so much for taking the time to make this video, you cover every aspect of the Squat which is extremely helpful! Glad I started following you!
Excellent video. I normally don't comment on video but I am humbled by the merit of this video. Thank you for putting it out there. I have seen many squat tips videos in last 2 weeks and this one is amongst the best of them. You are doing a great work by putting such an excellent instructions out there.
You deserve way more viewers / subscribers on this channel Alan, this is probably on of the most underrated Fitness channel on YT, great work and great explanations, thanks for all of this Alan.
If that question even came into your mind, you definitely need to reevaluate your purpose in watching fitness/training videos. btw, it was the camera angle, not logs 🤣
This is the best squat tutorial I have never seen, thanks for this video!! I have a question, well, I'm quite tall (1,86m), I have no tight ankle problem, and I have running shoes for now (I couldn't get squat shoes yet). So, which squat form is the best for me, considering I have a little problem on my right knee? I feel more comfortable when performing low-bar squat, because I feel pain on my right knee when I start the movement with the knees instead of my hips (high bar squat). But my kinesiology says I have to keep my feet looking perfectly to the front (instead of putting my toes slightly outwards), so I don't know what to do, because the way my kinesiology says is not comfortable at all and sometimes it makes me feel pain. I'll be glad if you can help me, regards from Argentina!!
the vocabulary that you use and the way you explain everything was superb to other channels, this is the best squat video ever that there is no argument about it
Bro, no running shoes ever. All the pressure points get thrown off. If someone can't achieve depth with bare feet then you do like you showed in the video -- plates under heels. Running shoes not even once. Cross trainers are ok. But that cushion shit is unacceptable.
I accidentally deleted your comment. You can re-post it if you want. I agree with you that squatting in chucks with plates under your heels is better than running shoes. When I created the video I was trying to be understanding and realize that not everyone has chucks or squat shoes so if its your last option, I think running shoes are better than going barefoot. Most people are handling less than 300 pounds when they squat so I don't think it's a HUGE problem. Just my opinion
+Alan Thrall (Untamed Strength) My ankle bones 'jam' in the front of my ankle when I squat or stretch my calves. Calf stretches don't help, because the bones just mash against each other. How do I fix this? It's only my right ankle, but it's affecting my left because my posture has changed.
Try doing some isolated glute routines with increasing weight for glute gains. Squats are amazing, but they're also a compound exercise working several muscles at a time. You want to hone in on your butt via isolation. :)
Alan, this is the best video I’ve seen devoted to the squat. Your in depth explanation of the technical aspects are superb Thank you for a great “how to” video.
Fuckin A to this good video. I'm sick of hearing even from other lifters who "used" to lift heavy saying "don't do them...you'll fuck you're knees up" saying this because they were never shown how to correctly do squats. Now onto deadlifts. I saw a guy doing them a few days ago and this asshole looked like he was going to fall the fuck over backwards he was pulling back so Damn far. I stopped lifting so I could be ready when he slipped up and had the bar on his belly! Didn't happen though.
Hey! Love the video. I got a ton of info from your videos. I did have a question though. I had an ACL surgery a few years ago, do you think I could still do squats?
I have had trouble with finding by squat for so long. I went to the gym the other day after watching this and it felt so great. Apparently I was combing information from low bar and high bar that ive seen on the internet. This clarified everything and was a huge help. Thank you Alan!!
Great instructional video. I have to disagree with the advice about squat shoes though. I think the solutions to tight ankles is to stretch out your ankles, or better yet, squat with just the bar until your ankles are able to make the movement. Humans were not meant to squat with big padding underneath their heels.
yeah and some humans have their femur head deeper in the hip socket than others. meaning no amount of flexibility will help them squat to proper depth. And who gives a fuck what humans were "meant" to do.
The correct name of the shoes in Weightlifting shoes and every Olympic Weightlifter wears them. They're a necessity for the sport, which is centered around the squat. While I agree that the athlete should continue working on ankle mobility, the advice given about the shoes is fine. No only do they address ankle inflexibility, but they provide a much more solid foundation than running shoes or Chucks. The heels also do not have padding underneath the heels. They're solid. That's the point of them. High-end modern shoes utilize plastic, but in the past solid wood was used. Anyone who is interested in strength training would benefit from the use of weightlifting shoes.
Som ankle bones in people who squat deep their whole life actually looks way different then people who never squats deep after childhood.. So for some(!) people it is an absolute impossibility to get good enough ankle flexibility for ATG barefoot squat.
TheNietzschian What humans were meant (or evolved) to do is EVERYTHING. I was speaking of course, about people who are anatomically normal (and there is such a thing). CassOnCall Not necessarily a barbell. How about the big kill, or the firewood, or the young offspring. Not hard to imagine.
Hello Alan, what a great contribution to the squat enthusiasts out there; in plain text and with low budget props, BRAVO! I'm looking forward to practising with your tips, THANK YOU!
Haha sorry dude I mean I love this video but me and my wife where just watching this and she said "he's massive" I said "ye his quads are ridiculous" she said "I wasn't talking about his quads" haha.
thank you a lot for this video. I knew almost anything you say in it, but some details, the examples, corrections and the expansions are so clear that will help me to remember proper form the next time I'll squat. again, thank you very much
this was by far the most helpful video I've seen. I love your channel and the way you teach. I appreciated your in depth explanations and use of tape for visual examples as it is how I learn best. thank you so much.
Best squat video I have seen ever period. Thank you this is great help I already know a lot about squats but this makes things clearer and more in depth.
+Alan Thrall (Untamed Strength) I agree with you that people should put their toes outward. My reasoning is that when people get fatter their walk changes so that their toes face outward. This is naturally done for stability. Watch a very obese person walk and you'll see what I'm saying. Thanks for the high bar tips I knew I was f-in it up.
Also, if squating is such a natural movement, why is it that we need something elevating our heels to do it properly. Seems like doing it barefoot would be the best way sinse it's such a natural movement and all.
You don't NEED something under your heels. It is a quick fix for people with poor ankle mobility until stretching and soft tissue work can get rid of the tightness.
I never needed anything under my feet, i squatted ATG since day one. But that's because I had good flexibility from martial arts. Therefore, the squat is a natural movement, but you lose the ability to do it if you're a couch potato.
Anatomy, 6'8 athlete like me with 43" legs, I need that support for my ankles, regardless of how flexible I am. I can get ATG without them but not without my pelvis tucking due to well.. My anatomy, the heel reduces the distance and stops my pelvis tuck
I play casually but no team or anything, bodybuilding/power lifting is my sport of choice :) I do have quite the knack for basketball too with speed and hand eye coordination
Hi bro I've been training for years, thought I knew it all, started watching your videos for a laugh, wow whata shock you have educated the know it all lol. My squats and bench press have improved 100%. Best informative training videos on UA-cam by a mile!
So human beings naturally should be able to squat because you see people in developing countries and young children squatting flat footed ass to grass with ease for long periods of time... if that's the case, why do you recommend that *everyone* wear a heeled shoe. If someone has no problem squatting to depth with flat feet, why wear a heeled shoe? If you can't do this without squat shoes, isn't this something you need to work on, rather than buying more hardware to work around your lack of mobility?
+Phlegm Atic 1. If you have good mobility, you can of course squat in flat shoes or barefoot. Using elevated heel shoes in this case still helps by reducing forward knee travel / enabling you to squat even deeper with the same amount of knee travel. 2. If you lack the mobility, of course you should work on improving it. Still, a proper shoe can enable you to safely squat/do other olympic lifts without having to just work mobility for months on end, unable to do any of these lifts as safely.
"I hope this video was helpful". Are you kidding? It is by far one of the best informative video about squat form and technique that I've ever seen! Of course it was helpful!Thanks from France ;)
Thanks for the info dude. Not many people tell you HOW to workout and why you should do it a certain way for what you want to achieve. They just tell you what exercises to do. thumbs up!
Also, this video helped me out so much. After a lower back injury a few years ago, i didn’t train for a good year and a half. Got back into it about 3 months ago, worked on weak spots, able to squat and deadlift again but my squat I just could get it right. After this video, I went in yesterday and had one of the best squat sessions I’ve ever had. Thanks Alan!
This has been by far the best youtube form video I have ever watched! probably the best of all time. your "low budget" props were kick ass. They did exactly what they should do without the bullshit. THANK YOU! I have just discovered your channel a couple of weeks ago. and hate that I hadn't before
Awesome. I started low bar squatting in summer after watching your other vid. Elbow and wrist pain... stuck it out... watched this - back to high bar this week and feel the burn on the quads like never before. Once again great vid - I'm back to high bar and love'n it.
Hey Alan, thank you so much. I find your videos entertaining and extremely educational. I have struggled with my squat form for years, and wondered why I couldn't attain the proper form or deep squat i wanted. Your explanations on the biomechanics involved in squatting were eye-opening. I now understand that my ankles are way to tight for one, and need to work on my overall flexibility. For now I will get myself some squat shoes, and apply some of your suggestion. Thank again man, keep up the awesome work.
dude looks like he just came back from spending the last decade squatting in isolation in a remote mountain cave in the Yukon.
***** calm down she-hulk, we're just having fun.
***** i thought he was giving a compliment to Thrall.
***** Chill, man. I meant that this dude's legs are like oak trees and even his beard could squat more than I (and you) can. If he wants to wear his hair in a bow, that's his call and I'm totally fine with it.
the perfect description 😂
Oak tree legs rofl. love it
"Squats are not bad for your knees,
your shitty form is bad for your knees."
LOLLL
Squats are not bad for your knees ... THEY ARE BAD FOR YOUR FUCKING BICEPS
It's true, I was doing squats bending my knees the wrong way and my physiotherapist asked me to show her how I do squats. She was like "no wonder your knees are bad..."
And my knees are no longer sore doing squats, ever.
This is the best squat-form guide I have seen in almost 40 years. You are a very good teacher, and your video is extremely well done.
Hmmm Chris didn't say anything about building huge glutes...just hams or quads. My point exactly.
Well by Mel My advice is not to twist my intention to suit your point. I am sure you do not mean harm... just watch it.
Are you joking? Why would I mean harm? You started commenting on my post telling me I was wrong and don't know what I am doing. I figured you misunderstood me, and I tried to clarify yet you continue to go off on a tangent. You make belittling assumptions that are unfounded, and I have only made comments based on your own words. But now I see now this is kind of your MO.
Chris Califano Agreed. The way he teaches is straight to the point and easy to understand. I would have no issues paying him as a trainer if he were in my gym.
Chris Califano holy shit, you're old, dude
Low budget film but the information is priceless.
What do you want special effects and a few celebrity cameos?
Bhammer4264 B I think he commented that because Alan also did
why is this guy squatting in the curl rack?
Budget cuts lol
TRIGGERED!!!
LUL
Is working his assoff and all you do is judge.
Lmao
I wish more people had a talent for being this clear.
it's like you're squatting for america.
he holds america on his shoulders
*Reps for jesus*
not everything is about the country
He’s a marine
@@quantum6692 he's facing the american flag lmao
"Squats are not bad for your knees; your shitty form is bad for your knees." Bahahaha! Yes! 😂
This video is fantastic, by the way.
lol!, i'm dead laughing. nice video indeed
Best weight lifting instruction I've ever seen.
alan is the best instructor on youtube for working out. hands down
hell yes he knows his shit
Brian Haley Alan really is the best. I can't say enough about how much he has improved my strength and reduced soreness.
Thanks for your great tutorial. Helped a lot -From North Korea, Pyong-yang
Which squat style will make that vein in my bicep bigger?
Couldn't think of a good name so i guess this is it Try hands free front squats so you have both arms free to dumbell curl the same time
Couldn't think of a good name so i guess this is it Actually, if you squat you will get bigger arms. Trust me.
Couldn't think of a good name so i guess this is it
Lifting heavy releases growth hormone, making all muscles grow.
Someone who only low bar squats, will have bigger biceps than someone who only does bicep curls.
As far as showing viany biceps, you need to get to sub 7-8% body fat.
No sarcasm.
nustada Exactly
nustada That is soooo far from truth..
this video changed my life. seriously
changed how :D
How :D
Claudia mariani same
she can show her ass on Instagram now
6:10 he is shitting for real! way to commit to the vid!
Oddly enough, this video helped me with ice-skating. In one ice-skating technique I kept falling backwards, and I didn't know why I couldn't bend deeper without falling backwards. Now I know--tight ankles. Very informational video.
This is one of the best "low budget", hell fuck it, most high budget videos aren't anywhere near as good as this.
Alan Thrall, thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge!
Imagine getting to go to Alans house & you ask to use the restroom & theres a nice tiled hole on the floor
Best squat video on UA-cam. Hands down!
This is THE definitive UA-cam guide on how to squat. Very well done.
Ouch. Turns out I've been squatting wrong for half a year. Thanks Alan :)
It seems like such a small thing but pointing your feet out has completely changed my squat! best advice i think ive ever been given on squatting
This guy needs to be a spokesperson for a movie theatre
new update: alan released a relatively newer video where he says it doesn't matter WHICH squat you use. the high bar and low bar squats are both perfectly fine. do what feels most comfortable/natural for you.
the garbage productive in what way? I think overhead dumbbell squat has the most ability transfer, but you may be able to lift the most weight with low back squat
I've watched this video multiple times already and it's the reason why I subscribed to your channel.
Hope everything is going well for you and thank you for putting out such awesome content.
Never realized how much I was doing wrong....I'm subscribed to many fitness channels and never had someone break it down like this. Appreciate the information.....Subscribed!!!!
This video is fantastic. You obviously have a good knowledge of body mechanics, and your experience definitely shows. I know next to nothing about squatting, but this video is so logical, well thought-out, and easy to follow, that I think I can give it a shot :) This is how a video tutorial should be!
35 years lifting and best squat advise and tutorial I have seen..congrats and thanks
Hi Alan, your instructions on squats are the most informative and solid I be come across so far, and I can really relate to the outcomes of the mistakes or small adjustments to the postures like ankle angle or hand placements, this video simply clears my mind up. Great job and thank you!
i watch videos on improving my squat almost every single day and this is the best one i've ever seen. you're my new favourite lifter.
You got a subscriber after this video. Incredibly well demonstrated, articulated, and versed. I almost always find something to complain about when watching any type of technical explanation video. Your understanding of biomechanics is on point. It is rare to see someone so well educated and giving out instruction. I have studied fitness, biomechanics, biochemicstry, and physiology for years. This is by far the best, most accurate, and most informative squat instructional video i have come across in four years. Thank you sir.
What an amazing video man! I know how much work you put into it!
One of the greatest squat tutorial out there. Incredibly well-informed, simple to follow and bearded. Alan, lumbar regions of the internet salute you.
This is best how-to squat video I've seen. It's very easy to understand and has helped me find things in my squat that need to be improved. Great job Alan!
you sir, are awesome!! :)
I opened up the video and was skeptical about watching a "how to" video 26 mins long :p :D
but ohhhh boy am i glad i watched this!! :)
+Aditya Chauhan if a "how to" video is 26 mins long it means it is going to be good and will touch everything you must know.
Great video,
Man what a relief, i always squated on the smithmachine because i never could do the normal squat properly whitout worrying if my knees were really behind the big toe of my feet, i noticed this on one of your movements at a particular time in your video, that it isn't a mortal sin if the knees sticks out for maybe one or two centimeters and i also saw that squating that deep is not bad for the knees either, man this kept me avoiding the normal squat for years.
Thanks a lot mr. Thrall, thank you.
Easily one of the best videos I've ever seen on UA-cam and I've seen thousands of videos since 2006! Thank you for this informative detailed tutorial
This is hands down the most useful info I have had on squats. I have been low bar squatting for a few months now and I now notice that I need to change a few things. It is good that you made a lengthy video rather than making a short one like most other youtuber's who are aiming for a bigger viewership(lower duration videos usually result into more views even though the video itself might not prove useful) and I am glad that it paid off for you as well. Can't thank you enough!
What an incredibly informative video, thank you so much for putting this together man - I've always had real difficulty squatting. My evening's now dedicated to binging on your channel. Sincerely thank you again Alan - all the best mate.
This video may have saved my lifting career. Have always been doing a low bar squat in a high bar position (moving hips back first in high bar stance) and it has caused terrible (possibly serious) back pain. Since then, I've been trying front squats and they've been my saving grace. Now understanding that a high bar is essentially a front squat, I might be able to squat heavy pain free. Hitting squats later tonight and trying these tips out. Also, romaleos just came in today so those should help as well. Thanks Alan for a very useful video. I'm sure others learned a lot as well.
Low back pain*
+SwimShady I sincerely recommend you to check out Kelly Starrett's "becoming the supple leopard", which is an execellent book for form, self-massage therapy, trigger points, Myofascial release etc. etc.... But mostly what I suggest you to do is push your hips back to a certain degree -WITHOUT ENGAGING YOUR PSOAS - and then squat down with your legs. This is because, while butt wink is not really an issue, since you are having low back pain, if you overextend like Alan does in this video you could exacerbate the problem or just simply slow down your healing process... I'm not saying it's wrong, I'm just saying that it might not be optimal for everybody. Check out omar isuf and silent mike's low bar squat to better understand what I mean.
+Michele Feltre thanks for the reply and helpful information. My squat session from that day I experimented with front, high, and low bar squats and everything felt off (haven't squatted in over a month). Thinking I used to drive hip backs like a low bar, you'd think low bar would be more comfortable. However, squat session today I focused on high bar and "breaking at the knees" cue helped tremendously. No pain and felt great. Will look into incorporating low bar, but for now will probably stick with high bar and master it cause it felt so damn good to squat pain free.
Thks Alan, you are by far the best no BS go to source for proper form for all the main lifts. I like your vids that are clear and simple to follow!
Thanks a lot from Germany - may the best "how to squat-video" I saw until yet. The comparison between high bar and low bar is great. The pictures and the the spoken words make things clear.
Here you can see how important it is, that somebody is not only strong but also able to explain it perfectly.
best squat instructional video on the internet
this is the best video i've seen on squatting
Really helpful video, you brought up a lot of things I have not seen in other squat videos with clear and simple explanations and examples. Great job.
Thank you so much for taking the time to make this video, you cover every aspect of the Squat which is extremely helpful! Glad I started following you!
god damn this was informative ! thank you
Song name: Absolute Oblivion by Techno Psyche.
+XTTaG Y you rock
+XTTaG Y Thank you!
+XTTaG Y Love you!
Excellent video. I normally don't comment on video but I am humbled by the merit of this video. Thank you for putting it out there. I have seen many squat tips videos in last 2 weeks and this one is amongst the best of them. You are doing a great work by putting such an excellent instructions out there.
You deserve way more viewers / subscribers on this channel Alan, this is probably on of the most underrated Fitness channel on YT, great work and great explanations, thanks for all of this Alan.
I spent way too much time trying to see if that flicker of light was him actually dropping logs
If that question even came into your mind, you definitely need to reevaluate your purpose in watching fitness/training videos.
btw, it was the camera angle, not logs 🤣
@@ScottWConvid19 bro why u being dramatic
This is the best squat tutorial I have never seen, thanks for this video!! I have a question, well, I'm quite tall (1,86m), I have no tight ankle problem, and I have running shoes for now (I couldn't get squat shoes yet). So, which squat form is the best for me, considering I have a little problem on my right knee? I feel more comfortable when performing low-bar squat, because I feel pain on my right knee when I start the movement with the knees instead of my hips (high bar squat). But my kinesiology says I have to keep my feet looking perfectly to the front (instead of putting my toes slightly outwards), so I don't know what to do, because the way my kinesiology says is not comfortable at all and sometimes it makes me feel pain. I'll be glad if you can help me, regards from Argentina!!
This video was beautifully explained. This is why this channel is one of the best. His voice over corresponds with demonstration. Thank you.
This is by far the best video I've ever seen on squatting! Thank you for all the hard work!
Low budget video but the best one I've seen, Subscribed!
Dude, your videos are on point!!! I'm a new sub can't wait to try the your knowledge. Thanks 👍👍👍
the vocabulary that you use and the way you explain everything was superb to other channels, this is the best squat video ever that there is no argument about it
The best squat video I've ever seen. Couldn't be better explained. Very educational.
What on earth possessed you to say that running shoes are preferable to chucks or bare feet?
Bro, no running shoes ever. All the pressure points get thrown off. If someone can't achieve depth with bare feet then you do like you showed in the video -- plates under heels. Running shoes not even once. Cross trainers are ok. But that cushion shit is unacceptable.
I accidentally deleted your comment. You can re-post it if you want. I agree with you that squatting in chucks with plates under your heels is better than running shoes. When I created the video I was trying to be understanding and realize that not everyone has chucks or squat shoes so if its your last option, I think running shoes are better than going barefoot. Most people are handling less than 300 pounds when they squat so I don't think it's a HUGE problem. Just my opinion
Alan Thrall Really good demo and instructions keep up the good work.
+Alan Thrall (Untamed Strength) sir im having triceps pain when doing low bar squats, what am i doing wrong
+Alan Thrall (Untamed Strength) My ankle bones 'jam' in the front of my ankle when I squat or stretch my calves. Calf stretches don't help, because the bones just mash against each other. How do I fix this? It's only my right ankle, but it's affecting my left because my posture has changed.
Which squat will help me with gains on my glutes. I love your videos, you are very thorough.
Try doing some isolated glute routines with increasing weight for glute gains. Squats are amazing, but they're also a compound exercise working several muscles at a time. You want to hone in on your butt via isolation. :)
Pablo Bridge no squats. Do hip thrust
The low bar would be the answer to this question though.
Alan, this is the best video I’ve seen devoted to the squat. Your in depth explanation of the technical aspects are superb Thank you for a great “how to” video.
This is the best squat video that I have ever seen. Thank you for putting in the effort to share this with us. Keep it up!!!
Fuckin A to this good video.
I'm sick of hearing even from other lifters who "used" to lift heavy saying "don't do them...you'll fuck you're knees up" saying this because they were never shown how to correctly do squats.
Now onto deadlifts. I saw a guy doing them a few days ago and this asshole looked like he was going to fall the fuck over backwards he was pulling back so Damn far. I stopped lifting so I could be ready when he slipped up and had the bar on his belly! Didn't happen though.
Hey! Love the video. I got a ton of info from your videos. I did have a question though. I had an ACL surgery a few years ago, do you think I could still do squats?
Absolutely. Start with body and slowly work up
Bodyweight*
Awesome. I have been scared to get back in the gym since the injury, but I am sick of being out of shape. I apreciate your help and all of the videos.
Spencer Thorn Go slow. Watch for injuries. That is all. And try to increase only by 5 lb.
+Spencer Thorn I had one myself, and zero problems, just go step by step as Alan said. And warmup!!
Your videos are the ultimate best. Haven't come across any other as good. Thank you!
Probably one of the most informative squat vids out there.Great work Alan
What flavour protein shake will improve my squat the most?
Cheese
20:30 I thought Chuck Taylors were decent for squats?
they are good, only if you have good ankle mobility.
I have had trouble with finding by squat for so long. I went to the gym the other day after watching this and it felt so great. Apparently I was combing information from low bar and high bar that ive seen on the internet. This clarified everything and was a huge help. Thank you Alan!!
You KILLED this video man. Great is a understatement regarding the content you included. Anybody at any level could benefit from this video.
Great instructional video. I have to disagree with the advice about squat shoes though. I think the solutions to tight ankles is to stretch out your ankles, or better yet, squat with just the bar until your ankles are able to make the movement.
Humans were not meant to squat with big padding underneath their heels.
yeah and some humans have their femur head deeper in the hip socket than others. meaning no amount of flexibility will help them squat to proper depth. And who gives a fuck what humans were "meant" to do.
I wasn't aware humans were meant to put a barbell on their back and go as low as possible then stand up.
Odd.
The correct name of the shoes in Weightlifting shoes and every Olympic Weightlifter wears them. They're a necessity for the sport, which is centered around the squat.
While I agree that the athlete should continue working on ankle mobility, the advice given about the shoes is fine. No only do they address ankle inflexibility, but they provide a much more solid foundation than running shoes or Chucks.
The heels also do not have padding underneath the heels. They're solid. That's the point of them. High-end modern shoes utilize plastic, but in the past solid wood was used.
Anyone who is interested in strength training would benefit from the use of weightlifting shoes.
Som ankle bones in people who squat deep their whole life actually looks way different then people who never squats deep after childhood.. So for some(!) people it is an absolute impossibility to get good enough ankle flexibility for ATG barefoot squat.
TheNietzschian What humans were meant (or evolved) to do is EVERYTHING. I was speaking of course, about people who are anatomically normal (and there is such a thing).
CassOnCall Not necessarily a barbell. How about the big kill, or the firewood, or the young offspring. Not hard to imagine.
Dude where have you been all my life!!!! AWAY WITH THESE CHICKEN LEGS!!!!
This is the best squatting tutorial I have seen thus far. Thumbs up man!
Hello Alan, what a great contribution to the squat enthusiasts out there; in plain text and with low budget props, BRAVO! I'm looking forward to practising with your tips, THANK YOU!
Alan Thrall: Low bar, pushing up with your ass, toes out. Mark Rippetoe form?
whats the background music for gods sake, its so ccol
Any luck?
some remix of music from matrix
By far the most informative, to the point and accurate squat video tutorial i've come across. Excellent, well done. Thanks.
Your videos have helped me have better form and improve my current form in the gym. Thank you.
Haha sorry dude I mean I love this video but me and my wife where just watching this and she said "he's massive" I said "ye his quads are ridiculous" she said "I wasn't talking about his quads" haha.
She's talking about his beard, right?
Sean Burton errrrrm yes that must be it. Haha
Dakota Miles my thoughts exactly
why would u comment this
Throw the whole wife away
if you got rid of the hair, your lifts would go up by 100lbs at least. lol but great video, i subbed.
Best video I've ever seen on UA-cam. Anyone that ever wants to lift weights needs to watch this
thank you a lot for this video. I knew almost anything you say in it, but some details, the examples, corrections and the expansions are so clear that will help me to remember proper form the next time I'll squat. again, thank you very much
I bought a rice cooker because of Alan...
he looks like alan from hangover hahaha
20:07 how the f*** do you not fall backwards? o_0
+GandalfforceYT Squat shoes magic
+GandalfforceYT He's holding onto the rack with his left hand
this was by far the most helpful video I've seen. I love your channel and the way you teach. I appreciated your in depth explanations and use of tape for visual examples as it is how I learn best. thank you so much.
Best squat video I have seen ever period. Thank you this is great help I already know a lot about squats but this makes things clearer and more in depth.
Hey, are you still following your 10,000 calorie diet?
Currently, No. Pretty much the same food, just less.
Thank you man, I love your videos!
Alan Thrall This video helps me a lot
Thank you
+Alan Thrall (Untamed Strength) I agree with you that people should put their toes outward. My reasoning is that when people get fatter their walk changes so that their toes face outward. This is naturally done for stability. Watch a very obese person walk and you'll see what I'm saying. Thanks for the high bar tips I knew I was f-in it up.
+Damnationization its biomechanics. With open hips it's easier for pretty much everyone to hit depth
beard/squat form= likes
This guy is so good, his explanations are super easy to understand!
Ive been squatting for a few years now and this video really helped all the minor details I was missing. Thanks a lot man !!!
Why the FUCK did a Mike Chang ad play before your video? I'm obviously here for legitimate tips...not his BS
Also, if squating is such a natural movement, why is it that we need something elevating our heels to do it properly. Seems like doing it barefoot would be the best way sinse it's such a natural movement and all.
You don't NEED something under your heels. It is a quick fix for people with poor ankle mobility until stretching and soft tissue work can get rid of the tightness.
I never needed anything under my feet, i squatted ATG since day one. But that's because I had good flexibility from martial arts. Therefore, the squat is a natural movement, but you lose the ability to do it if you're a couch potato.
Anatomy, 6'8 athlete like me with 43" legs, I need that support for my ankles, regardless of how flexible I am. I can get ATG without them but not without my pelvis tucking due to well.. My anatomy, the heel reduces the distance and stops my pelvis tuck
WarcraftAzraman
6"8? Damn, you better be playing basketball.
I play casually but no team or anything, bodybuilding/power lifting is my sport of choice :) I do have quite the knack for basketball too with speed and hand eye coordination
Hi bro I've been training for years, thought I knew it all, started watching your videos for a laugh, wow whata shock you have educated the know it all lol. My squats and bench press have improved 100%. Best informative training videos on UA-cam by a mile!
I just started binge watching all your videos. these are awesome because they are informative and entertaining lol
So human beings naturally should be able to squat because you see people in developing countries and young children squatting flat footed ass to grass with ease for long periods of time... if that's the case, why do you recommend that *everyone* wear a heeled shoe. If someone has no problem squatting to depth with flat feet, why wear a heeled shoe? If you can't do this without squat shoes, isn't this something you need to work on, rather than buying more hardware to work around your lack of mobility?
+Phlegm Atic 1. If you have good mobility, you can of course squat in flat shoes or barefoot. Using elevated heel shoes in this case still helps by reducing forward knee travel / enabling you to squat even deeper with the same amount of knee travel.
2. If you lack the mobility, of course you should work on improving it. Still, a proper shoe can enable you to safely squat/do other olympic lifts without having to just work mobility for months on end, unable to do any of these lifts as safely.
Because the habits of today's people have created tight hips and ankles so people lose mobility and oly shoes are needed
BowlCutKid DKS read what i wrote properly
"I hope this video was helpful". Are you kidding? It is by far one of the best informative video about squat form and technique that I've ever seen! Of course it was helpful!Thanks from France ;)
Thanks for the info dude. Not many people tell you HOW to workout and why you should do it a certain way for what you want to achieve. They just tell you what exercises to do. thumbs up!
The Responsibility Is Ours!!
Thanks for being the resource we require to make our decisions!
Also, this video helped me out so much. After a lower back injury a few years ago, i didn’t train for a good year and a half. Got back into it about 3 months ago, worked on weak spots, able to squat and deadlift again but my squat I just could get it right.
After this video, I went in yesterday and had one of the best squat sessions I’ve ever had. Thanks Alan!
This has been by far the best youtube form video I have ever watched! probably the best of all time.
your "low budget" props were kick ass. They did exactly what they should do without the bullshit.
THANK YOU! I have just discovered your channel a couple of weeks ago. and hate that I hadn't before
Awesome. I started low bar squatting in summer after watching your other vid. Elbow and wrist pain... stuck it out... watched this - back to high bar this week and feel the burn on the quads like never before.
Once again great vid - I'm back to high bar and love'n it.
Hey Alan, thank you so much. I find your videos entertaining and extremely educational. I have struggled with my squat form for years, and wondered why I couldn't attain the proper form or deep squat i wanted. Your explanations on the biomechanics involved in squatting were eye-opening. I now understand that my ankles are way to tight for one, and need to work on my overall flexibility. For now I will get myself some squat shoes, and apply some of your suggestion. Thank again man, keep up the awesome work.