Ratio's for leg vs torso proportions and back angle for squats

[Troy]

Hi Mark,

In SS you mention obviously that your squat will look different depending on leg vs torso proportions, but is there any tables or similar to deduce how wide your feet should be and whether or not you are actually leaning too far forward for etc?

I ask cause i'm working on my adductor flexibility and find a narrower stance --not a wider one is easier for me to keep my knee's out, contray to your advice.

Maybe one could be developed to determine correct biomechanics?

Cheers

[Mark Rippetoe]

Why would a table be necessary when you have already solved the problem the old-fashioned way?

[Troy]

Well, not really the back angle but your own distance between your feet.

I find I can vary my stance quite a bit, maybe 3-6inches narrower/wider and still produce an acceptable squat. For instance the recomendation is feet shoulder width apart, but I thought in relation your hips would be better --as I have narrow shoulders. Feet 30degress as well, I know is might be relavant, but what if closer to 45 degress seems better --and your knees are out and femur parralle to feet?

So should I practice a slighty wider stance and keep up with the adductor streches??

Cheers

[Mark Rippetoe]

Shoulder width works for most people because they're proportionate. If your hips are wider or shoulders are narrow, you'll need to adjust your stance accordingly.