While tough to master, front squats are a great exercise to build your lower body strength while developing a strong and functional core. Try these different techniques to find what works best for you.
CROSS FIT FRONT SQUAT GRIP
Positioning Yourself
Position hands at the outside of the shoulders
Let the bar roll to your fingertips
Rest the bar on your anterior delts
Keep elbows up and back straight through repetitions
Common Issues With Cross Fit Grip
The cross fit grip can often be hard for those with limited flexibility. Make sure you have warmed up and stretched well before performing this exercise.
Be sure to also watch your lumbar extension during the exercise. Keep your core strong and make sure not to lean too far forward or backward.
CROSS ARM FRONT SQUAT GRIP
Positioning Yourself
Rest the bar on your anterior delts
Cross your arms and place hands on bar pressing against the shoulders
During squat keep your back straight and your core engaged
Common Issues With Cross Arm Grip
The most common issue we see with the cross arm grip is the urge to round your back. Focus on keeping your body in alignment.
The cross arm grip can also be much more fatiguing and requires strength in the upper back.
STRAP ASSISTED FRONT SQUAT GRIP
Positioning Yourself
Wrap straps around the bar
Keep hands at the outside of the shoulders like in the cross fit grip
Hold the straps and keep tension
Continue exercise with straight back and core engaged
Common Issues With Strap Assisted Grip
The main issue that we see in this grip is clients wanting to wrap the strap around their hands. This can create a stronger hold but if fatigue is reached and the bar is dropped it can cause serious injury.
Other Tips
Most often people can lift more with a standard back squat than a front squat. Make sure not to try and go heavy too quickly.
The front squat requires a lot of core strength. Make sure to keep your muscles engaged and not let your lower back take over.
Ready to achieve your fitness goals and become the best version of yourself?