Can't get proper depth, while keeping a relativly horizontal back?

[Kyle H]

Hello, I'm not new to lifting. However I am new to your way of squatting. Everything is great, but I am a deep squatter. When I get below parallel my torso goes "vertical". I'm using my hips to get down, and go up, like you said, but I'm not staying "horizontal" when I get below parallel. So my question is, would it be better to keep going deep or should I sacrifice depth for the "horizontal" back angle. Thanks for any help or clarification you can offer.

[Mark Rippetoe]

Video.

[Kyle H]

Video.

Tomorrow "Friday" is training day, so I'll record it then. If it helps at all my hips go back, and then like a pendulum go down, and forward forcing my torso to go vertical.

[Mark Rippetoe]

You're obviously squatting ATG. Have you read the book?

[Kyle H]

Yes, I have, and I never really thought of it as "ATG" because my calves aren't touching my hamstrings, and I'm not relaxing my lowerback. My torso keeps straight, no rounding. Also I'm not relaxing any muscles "Hamstrings, back". In that case would is still be optimal to cut the depth short?

[Mark Rippetoe]

Video.

[Jay Mund]

20$ says Kyle is starting out with the weight too far back on his heels and doesn't let his knees come forward enough on the descent.

[Mark Rippetoe]

I think Kyle is 8 inches below parallel, which cannot be done without returning to a vertical back.

[Jay Mund]

Absolutely. And on his heels.