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How to Do Squats with a Squat Rack

September 17, 2023 3 min read

How to Do Squats with a Squat Rack

Introduction to Squat Racks

Squat racks are a great tool for any serious weightlifter looking to increase their strength and power. The squat rack is a versatile piece of equipment that can be used to perform all kinds of exercises, but most notably, squats. Squats are one of the best exercises you can do to build lower body strength and power, and the squat rack is the perfect tool for performing them safely and efficiently.

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The squat rack is a sturdy and stable structure that is designed to hold heavy weights. It typically consists of two vertical posts with adjustable hooks and safety bars at the top and bottom. This allows the user to adjust the height and width of the rack, so it fits properly around their body when they are performing squats. The safety bars also ensure that if the user loses control of the weight during their exercise, they won’t be in danger of injury.

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Getting Started With Squats and the Squat Rack

Before beginning any type of exercise regimen, it is always a good idea to warm up your muscles and joints by doing some light stretching or cardio. Once you’ve done this, you’re ready to start your squats. When using a squat rack, you will want to adjust the height and width of the rack to fit your body size. You may also want to adjust the safety bars so that they are at a comfortable level for you.

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Before loading the barbell, make sure you are standing in the correct starting position. Your feet should be about shoulder-width apart, and your toes should be pointed slightly outward. Your back should be straight and your chest should be up. This is the starting position for every squat.

Once you are in the correct starting position, you can begin to load the barbell. If you are using a barbell, make sure you have the right weight plates loaded on each side. It is important to keep the weight distributed evenly on both sides of the barbell, otherwise you could end up injuring yourself. Once the barbell is loaded, you can grab it with an overhand grip (palms facing down) and lift it off the rack. Now you are ready to begin your squats.

When doing a squat, it is important to keep your core engaged and your chest up throughout the entire movement. As you descend, keep your knees behind your toes and push your hips back as if you were sitting in a chair. Keep descending until your thighs are parallel to the floor, then drive through your heels and stand up. That’s one rep!

Tips for Proper Form

While squats can be a great exercise for building strength and power, it is important to make sure that you are doing them correctly. Here are some tips for proper form when performing squats with a squat rack:

  • Keep your chest up and your core engaged throughout the entire movement.
  • Make sure your knees stay behind your toes as you descend.
  • Drive through your heels as you stand up.
  • Make sure to keep the weight evenly distributed on both sides of the barbell.
  • Don’t forget to warm up before you start.

Variations of Squats

There are many variations of squats you can do with a squat rack. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Goblet Squats: This variation involves holding a weight (such as a dumbbell or kettlebell) close to your chest as you perform the squat.
  • Overhead Squats: This variation involves holding a barbell above your head as you perform the squat.
  • Front Squats: This variation involves holding the barbell across your chest as you perform the squat.
  • Sumo Squats: This variation involves widening your stance and pointing your toes outward as you perform the squat.

These variations can help to add variety to your workouts and target different muscles in your legs and core. Be sure to practice good form when doing these variations and always use a spotter when lifting heavy weights.

Squats are a great way to build strength and power in your lower body. Squat racks are a great tool for performing squats safely and effectively. When using a squat rack, be sure to adjust it to the correct height and width for your body size and make sure to keep the weight evenly distributed on both sides of the barbell. There are also many variations of squats that you can do to add variety to your workouts. As long as you practice good form and use a spotter when necessary, you can maximize the benefits of squats while avoiding injury.