Squat Mechanics / Feeling the Muscle Activation
Mark,
First let me thank you for everything you do in the world of fitness. I very much enjoy your no bullshit approach.
I have a question regarding squat mechanics. I have read your article 5 times. I have watched your Art of Manliness Squat/Deadlift videos over 30 times collectively. I've watched the video of you correcting a kids hip drive 5 times.
I have recently started squatting again, which I avoided for a long time. I have now been squatting for the last two months. My main concern is that I want to be sure I am progressing in weight using the proper mechanics and form. It is difficult to assess oneself without a video camera...and even then, my eyes arent as trained as yours.
It occurs to me that I may be able to determine if my form is correct by the burn/fatigue of a given muscle group. Essentially, where I feel it the most.
So as far as the squat is concerned, I understand it is a posterior chain movement. My goal with each rep is to visualize the the bar is on my lower back. Push from there. Keep my eyes on the floor 6 feet in front of me. Etc
I've been doing 3 sets of 5 twice a week, as I am on a cut. I am concerned that I dont feel a tremendous burn in my glutes upon completion of the set, nor in my hamstrings, but then again I am not going to failure.
What would you advise as far 'feeling' the movement? I understand the completely insane and arbitrary nature of my question, especially without a visual. When I squatted years ago, I recall tremendously intense burns in my glutes. That said I Was never going lower than 8 reps, and I wasnt using your form.
I am driving myself insane after every workout trying to assess whether or not I am doing them properly...how to assess if the bar is mid foot, how to assess whether or not I am lifting my chest, etc.
Any help would be appreciated.