Low Bar Squat - Bar Position

[pbjorge12]

Hey Coach,
I realize that the bar position for a proper low bar squat is discussed ad nauseum in your book. I swear I've read the section at least 5 times. I'm a freshman in college with no knowledge of anatomy (I plan to fix this starting next quarter) and all this talk of scapulas and rear delts is confusing me.

When I grip the bar with a thumbless grip, a tight back, and straight wrists, will the bar naturally sit where it needs to go?

I know what a high bar squat feels like so I will know if it is too high. I'm just concerned about getting the bar in the "sweet spot."

[Mark Rippetoe]

If you can't get it out of the book, perhaps the DVD will help.

[pbjorge12]

I just got the DVD yesterday and it helped...

Now I have another question... In the book, you make it very clear that having straight wrists during the squat is very important and reccomend using tape to make people aware when their wrist line break. Almost everyone in the dvd had broken wrists.

Was this due to a flexibility issue that you let pass so they could keep their upperback tight under the bar?

[Mark Rippetoe]

It was due to the fact that when we teach new movement patterns there is a priority assigned to the corrections that we make as coaches. The wrist position is important for long-term elbow and wrist health, but the biggest fish get fried first -- hip drive is the guts of the movement, and teaching it takes priority. The DVD is not the book. Think of it as a Video Poster.

[pbjorge12]

That makes perfect sense.

After going in to the gym today to do my workout, I must say, The DVD has been a lifesaver and has definitely improved technique. Thanks alot.