Squat rack tips

The squat rack is a gym staple, and for good reason. Squats are a compound exercise that works multiple muscle groups at once, making them a fantastic way to build strength and power in your lower body. 

 

Here's a little guide to help you get the most out of using the squat rack:

 

Adjust the rack: set the barbell to a height where you can comfortably unrack it with your shoulders slightly below the bar.

 

Step under the bar: stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and toes pointed slightly outward.

Brace your abs as if you're about to be punched in the stomach.

 

Unrack and squat: push the bar off the rack and squat down as if you're sitting back into a chair. Keep your back straight, chest up, and knees tracking over your toes. Descend until your thighs are parallel to the ground (or as low as comfortably possible).

 

Drive yourself back up to the starting position by pushing through your heels.

Don't let your back round or your knees cave in.

 

Focus on a slow and controlled movement, both on the way down and on the way up.

Start light and gradually increase weight: once you've mastered the form, gradually increase the weight on the barbell to keep challenging yourself.

 

Once you've mastered the basic squat, you can experiment with different variations like front squats, Bulgarian split squats, and goblet squats to target different muscle groups and add variety to your workout.

Have a great workout!