I have been lifting for general fitness and strength for two decades and your 9 minute video has provided more insight into proper squat technique than all the advice and feedback I've received over the years. Much appreciated!
Low bar is best because it's what I do. I must defend the process I invest my time and and try to convince everyone it's best. Also I can lift more low bar which impresses my fellow flat brim hat wearing cohorts at the gym. Wait, why do we wear flat brims at the gym? Who cares , I do it there for you should too. It's cool.
I've always more naturally fell in to a low bar squat without really thinking about it. I also have always been really good at deadlifting. It all makes sense now.
Rafaello Fareday I agree. used to do this all the time! To bad I can't do FS after I hurt my wrist. Okay I suppose I can do a cross grib (or whatever you call it) I just don't like it as well as the olympic grib. Don't fell safe. Mostly doing HB and only LB on my heavy day once a week :)
Learned a lot from this video and your channel thus far. I'm 62 and just restarting flexibility movement training. I'm in pretty decent shape, retired Marine with no injuries. Thanks Alan for your no bullshit methods.
I always try to perform ATG every time when low bar squatting unless it's really heavy weights. I have seen great results on my quad. learning so much on improving my squat and deadlift from your videos. thanks for the quality and non boring videos.
@@Oly1y How so is it a "poor deadlift"? Your statement doesn't make any sense and therefore has no value. I don't see any lifting off the ground motion regarding low bar squat, I mean you have the barbell on your back and you're push it with your legs which makes it a pushing exercise not pulling one which you said it is.
Low-bar = wrist/elbow explosion for me. Never got the damn thing to work right. The biggest con about high-bar is that it made my quads so big I had to widen my deadlift grip
Haha what a shame, your quads are too big. I know this is an old comment, but jokes aside, have you considered trying sumo deadlifts? It would solve this problem and they are better for quad-dominant people. Just a suggestion.
Brah I had the same problem. Yesterday I reached my 190lbs low bar squat and it was brutal to my wrist. Breathing was challenged, and I tend to end the lift faster because it hurts bad. I was always told to do low bar because it's the real shit. Now I watched Alan, Imma have me some highbar and some really nice quads.
For the last couple of months, any time I have had a question about lifting, Alan has had an answer. It is most often clear, to the point, well-reasoned, and still makes room for a healthy dash of humour. I'm loving your vids, mate. Thanks for dropping the knowledge!
The68VeeDub low bar hands on bar placement really bugs my shoulder joints. I usually do high bar but would like to figure out a way where the low bar squat won't effect me like that
Thanks for another great video man. I've been doing only low bar squats for over a year, but I think you've convinced me to switch to high bar because I also do deadlifts. This is so informative really helped me. I think you have the best strength channel on youtube, keep em coming!
Used several of these cues (this video and 'Fixing Your Squat") this a.m. with my CrossFit classes. As always Alan your videos are entertaining, funny as shit, well edited, and most importantly...honest, logical, anatomically-referenced, broad-based, interesting, relevant, consistent, and accurate. I know this video is over 1 yr old now but it will stand the test of time. Thanks for all you do man!
This video just taught me that I've been doing low bar squats in a high bar position for probably close to two years.... Poor flexibility has been a bane.
I've basically been low bar squatting forever because my first exposure to lifting was Rippetoe's starting strength. It feel so natural that high bar seems like a different language. What I've started doing recently is using the front squat and the safety bar squat as accessories, I think it's just better to do everything unless you're training for a specific sport but even then nothing wrong with changing it up and trying new things. good video you've got a new subscriber :D
***** I used to only highbar then I realized that contrary to what some say is a myth, a person can definitely squat heavier by getting a good low bar technique. but then I stopped high bar and my quads got weaker. when I went back to try hb it felt so weird that I felt like I was doing a front squat from being so much more up right. I agree definitely incorporate both of them in your training. im not shit talking this guy in the vid but I don't know why he made it seem as if you should choose between them. getting a strong low bar can benefit anybody that wants to get stronger for and reason
steve k He never out right side not to do both. He was asked to chose one and his reason for choosing high bar was that the deadlift (assuming you are deadlifting) will hit the muscles that the high bar does not and if you are deadlifting, the high bar will hit muscles the lowbar does not target as much. So for the general population that are deadlifting as well, he suggests the high bar is the way to go to better hit the hip hinge and squat movements
nice video! Most people will try to avoid explicitly saying which one is better, but you have the gut to give a clear answer. I did low bar for some time and when switched to high bar, man it is totally different. I feel more in control, and it enhances my mobility and stability. Also ATG high bar squat is a quick fix to any ego problems....
This is the best video I've found on the topic of low bar vs. high bar squats. Another kick-ass vid, man. I personally stick with the low bar squats for my heavy workouts because they allow me to load more weight onto the bar. I do, however, incorporate lighter front squats as an assistance exercise to target the quads as you described in this great video. Thanks, Allen.
Most informative video on the internet! Answered all questions we’ve been pondering but never asked! With a slightly tweaked Starting Strength program , I find myself doing both. However, as someone with a ridiculous inside leg measurement, I find that I have to low bar as the weight goes up, otherwise I can’t maintain balance due to femur length.
Man why the hell has it taken 15yrs of my ametuer ass lifting for someone to explain this too me. No wonder I fatigue hard when I squat (have always done low bar) and deadlift heavy in the same week sessions! Do you do custom programs for people?
Now that Alan is a certified SSC I would love to hear his opinion / review on this video. SS primary focus is on low bar so much so that it states that its actually the only form of squats.
This truly is the best explanation that I have ever seen explaining the low vs high bar squat. Your videos are intelligent and informative. Thanks so much. I can high bar squat 355 for 2 and cannot get past this point. I don't belt, just wearing knee sleeves. I have recently tried low bar and I break at the knees and not hips. It feels like the weight is going to pile drive my face to the floor. My quads are definitely way stronger than my posterior chain and with me not deadlifting , the high bar feels more comfortable.
Super super helpful, thank you! I think I've been holding the bar in high position but sending my hips back like for a low bar squat. Will clean it up next time. :)
Thanks man. I was having issues when shitting on camping trips. But now see that my form was all wrong. I will work on my high bar squats to better prepare for my next trip.
Hi Alan: I watched 3 videos and thanks for helping correct the forms for squatting and deadlifting. sitting in the office all day, i need to train 4/5 days a week. you're very knowledgeable and know your stuff. Great work here! I'll switch to high bar because my squat is the same as my low bar squat. I definitely noticed a difference with the quads with the squat. Last, you're funny as hell! I'm sure you're inspiring a lot of people. Ferdie
thank u sooo kuch +Alan Thrall , i often do th high bar squat nd people say i m doing wrng. ....... so i was searching fr dis whole tym nd jumped onto ur video,, now ihave no queries left !!!!!! thank u soooo much
I do low-bar, but I agree with you to a point. You said that people who are getting into general fitness should do HB. I don't think so. Poeple who are getting to general fitness need to get as strong as possible, put some muscle on, start moving. They should do low bar, 'cause it's less requiring in terms of mobility. You said it yourself, squatting low bar style puts more muscle on. You should do low bar for muscle, if you're starting lifting, and front squat for your posture, quads, mobility. Front Squat is better than HB squat for posture, because you can fuck up technique on HB and still perform a lift, but you can't fuck up technique on FS and perform the lift.
I just made the move from high bar to low bar and I love it. I feel like there is a better mind muscle connection can't explain it but with the weight lower on my bar makes my legs TRAIN UNTAMED!
I really love watching all your videos. Especially this one I'm about to start the stronglifts 5x5 and I'm really worried about the squatting part of it cause I was born with clubfoot and now as a adult in my 30s I have really bad ankles and have even had to get a ankle fusion on my left ankle but I really want to work out and get stronger and more muscle. So watching this video gives me some hope that I will be able to at least do the low bar squats. Thanks again.
Im a 15 year old female, and i want to try leg day for the first time i ever go to the gym. But the thing is i dont know if the hand/feet placement has to specifically go somewhere. Can I get any hepp
Thank you my brother, I never leave comments. However, in this case, your drive for information to us, was my drive to give you props! ) Knowledge is powah!
Been doing 99% LBS. Definitely got stronger, weight and plates went up. I really doubt my quads grew much or at all. I'll switch up to HBS, though I'll be starting from scratch with them.
***** No. I'm 6'8", and getting that low at high weight is not doable just yet. Parallel is good for me. And stance too wide? Nope. A little more than shoulder width to get parallel.
Daniel McIsaac I did the same thing. got better at low bars and started using them for all heavy sets. only used hb for warming up. I went back to trying hb with decent weight for sets of what I would consider high reps, and my quads were mo fuckin weak as they've been in a long time. so, back to reps with hb until the quads get back in the game. and then I can mix up the two
hold the phone hold the phone. so youre telling me that if I squat low Bar ass to grass I can activate my quads just as much as I would in a high Bar squat???!!! if that's true we have just found an amazing hybrid squat
MrTheSlash3r hes feet are a bit wider on the low bar ( ya i know the vid was cut but look close) but for someone people they still manage to have an upright posture. guess its experience and strength
Excellent! The who/when/why for each solved a problem for me -- as a person with the mobility difficulties that make the high-bar version VERY difficult and unnatural feeling.
I just switched to high bar from low bar squatting and love it. I can't move as much weight, but fuck it, I'm not 25 anymore. Bottom line is, my quads a growing like weeds and my back feels 100x better the next day.
i have never known what the difference is between high/low bar squatting until i watched this video. after watching this i identified ivr been doing low bar squatting but ass to grass and this really enlightened me about the pros and cons of it. thanks for the video.👍
Great vid! I never really thought about how different these types of squats were mechanically, thanks for the great information. Would love to hear your take on high bar vs front squat. Personally I think front squats are far superior to any back squat to increase leg strength.
Thanks for explaining so clearly! It seems I'm not a high bar candidate due to tight ankles. I was wondering why my squats never get as deep as others seem to be able to go! Maybe I can work on that now that I know what the issue is
+incogenator same - if you find a way let me know. I have one funky hip too so that doesn't help either. AND I have a somewhat weaker core & pelvic tilt issues going on which gives me even more issues due to tight hamstrings- basically the whole back side of my legs are tight. My trainer sometimes puts a foam riser under my heels for certain types of squats like plié squats which helps my mobility a lot. But I hope there's some posture correction stretches or training that can be done.
Yeah I have tight ankles and anterior pelvic tilt, and left hip is just bad for some reason (never injured I guess it's a genetic defect). I found I can do the weights under the heel trick to squat deeper & improve posture, but I find my knees then get upset when I go past 90 degrees 😖 oh well maybe I was just not meant to go ass to grass. I've been finding non-squat or modified squat moves to work my legs. RDLs, step ups, side squats, plié squats, back lunges (but not front lunges), glute kick backs, glute bridges, hiking, stair climber, etc.
Great job Alan. I have a son that just started lifting and was about to talk to the coach about my son's bad form in the squat. He was just high bar squatting with bad form. Now I know what to show him.
I did ATG high bar for years, past couple months I've swapped to low bar at a couple inches above ATG. High bar is garbage in comparison. Make the swap bro.
My ankle mobility is trash and I've thought my form is wrong for so long due to this limitation. I definitely noticed over the years I don't stay as upright as other people. Found this video!!! Now I realize I've simply adapted to the low bar squat over time without realizing it. Thanks for this! Gonna try and keep my form correct, sticking to the low bar.
Am I the only who thinks that the low bar squat has been better for their lower back than the high bar squat? When I squatted high bar, my lower back would get beaten up and would hurt a lot more when I squatted. When I started squatting low bar, it just felt so much better for my lower back. Plus, I can squat a lot more with the low bar squat than with the high bar.
+Zachary Wheeler Under your foot, where do you feel the most pressure? Front or back, or is the pressure even? If you feel more pressure on the front, it means that you are leaning forward (bad form).
Andy Butler Not exactly true what if they are using perfect form but are too tight in certain places causing them to butt wink? That opens the lower back up to injury.
What about for tall people? I'm 6ft 6 and have been told by someone who studies weightlifting that for tall people the lowbar squat is better. I do was to grass squats as well and have found that lowbar squating has improved my motivation tonsquat as well as I am finding it far more comfortable. I'm a discus thrower s squatting is a big part of my training.
Andrew Bowsher I am 6'6 as well and have been doing high bar. Reached 140kg PR at 91kg bw. Work on the form and ankle mobility. Also add posterior chain work such as RDL's and hip thrusts
Dude, your stuff is awesome. So many people are afraid to make a statement. I like that you're willing to say things like most people should be going high bar.
Low bar feels way more natural for me. I tried high bar for six seasons and my hip flexors started hurting so bad I could barely squat the empty barbell
@@thisismylovehandle Lowbar forces your glutes to work. If you have weak glutes, you'll run into endless problems high bar squatting such as weak hip flexors or impingement because your quads are shifting the weight pulling the hip capsule more in the direction of your quads. A few weeks of lowbar squatting and extra glute work will fix that
![ILLSLICK - THE KING'S LANDING [Freestyle]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/feIJJnNkTfk/mqdefault.jpg)
![งมหอย จับปลา มือเปล่า หาอยู่หากินแบบวีถีอีสานกับแก๊งเซียนหรั่ง ม่วนคัก! [ขอนแก่น] @Sianstudio](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/JEJZg6N-AbU/mqdefault.jpg)
I enjoyed this video until the shitting in the woods part...now I love this video
same
+Justin Right after that part i get down to the comments, because i know that someone had express the same i feel. Cheers!
+Esteban De Lion ...."express"..... lol
Spanglish!
+Justin yeah... shitting in the woods... LOL...
I appreciate how you come to a conclusion rather asking viewers to answer the question for you.
I don't know about everyone else, but I'm looking forward to that "How to shit in the woods" video....
Gotta wait until Alan becomes the Pope
"How to shit in the woods?"
Do Romanian Deadlifts !
Being expecting it since three years ago:c
still waiting
I have been lifting for general fitness and strength for two decades and your 9 minute video has provided more insight into proper squat technique than all the advice and feedback I've received over the years. Much appreciated!
You still at it bro? 😎
Low bar is best because it's what I do. I must defend the process I invest my time and and try to convince everyone it's best. Also I can lift more low bar which impresses my fellow flat brim hat wearing cohorts at the gym. Wait, why do we wear flat brims at the gym? Who cares , I do it there for you should too. It's cool.
whoooooosh
What we got here is some good ol’ fashion sass.
John Corder fk low bar
Lol, "flat brimmed cohorts"
Boy this comment did not age well
I've always more naturally fell in to a low bar squat without really thinking about it. I also have always been really good at deadlifting. It all makes sense now.
Just imagine how hard Klokov could blast a shit in the woods.
9fifty5 He would explosively propel himself into the air with that thrust.
Front Squat + Lowbar Squat = MasterRace
Rafaello Fareday I agree. used to do this all the time! To bad I can't do FS after I hurt my wrist. Okay I suppose I can do a cross grib (or whatever you call it) I just don't like it as well as the olympic grib. Don't fell safe. Mostly doing HB and only LB on my heavy day once a week :)
Agreed
Just do front squats and stiff leg Deadlift you fucking moron
Front squat + low bar + sumo deadlift = master race
Zombie squats+ low bar squats, perfect for developing mass.
Learned a lot from this video and your channel thus far. I'm 62 and just restarting flexibility movement training. I'm in pretty decent shape, retired Marine with no injuries. Thanks Alan for your no bullshit methods.
T
I definitely do a high bar squat when I shit in the woods.
What about Front Squats?
I recomend low bar if you have diarrhea
Just don't lunge.
that squat was the epic due to that shake at 00:00
what about sumo stance when you have diarrhea??
This made me feel so much better about high bar squatting
Yes! High bar ftw 🙌
I always try to perform ATG every time when low bar squatting unless it's really heavy weights. I have seen great results on my quad. learning so much on improving my squat and deadlift from your videos. thanks for the quality and non boring videos.
I freaking love low bar, it just feels right for me and my knees.
It’s okay. Doing it right isn’t for everybody.
madclone84 actually low bar is a variation of the squat. You’re too fuckin dumb to know there’s different ways
@@jessebradford3900 how's it a variation of the squat when it's just a poor deadlift
Effortless Insec Tell that Stan The Rhino efferding. You sound so dumb
@@Oly1y How so is it a "poor deadlift"? Your statement doesn't make any sense and therefore has no value. I don't see any lifting off the ground motion regarding low bar squat, I mean you have the barbell on your back and you're push it with your legs which makes it a pushing exercise not pulling one which you said it is.
Low-bar = wrist/elbow explosion for me. Never got the damn thing to work right.
The biggest con about high-bar is that it made my quads so big I had to widen my deadlift grip
Haha what a shame, your quads are too big. I know this is an old comment, but jokes aside, have you considered trying sumo deadlifts? It would solve this problem and they are better for quad-dominant people. Just a suggestion.
Brah I had the same problem. Yesterday I reached my 190lbs low bar squat and it was brutal to my wrist. Breathing was challenged, and I tend to end the lift faster because it hurts bad. I was always told to do low bar because it's the real shit. Now I watched Alan, Imma have me some highbar and some really nice quads.
Your mobility must be low. Don't forget to train mobility.
@@johnmichaelramos3462 Bro breathing is gonna be challenged. Yup.
Lmao suffering from success
8:15 That should be the thumbnail!
He got it instantly
For the last couple of months, any time I have had a question about lifting, Alan has had an answer. It is most often clear, to the point, well-reasoned, and still makes room for a healthy dash of humour.
I'm loving your vids, mate. Thanks for dropping the knowledge!
Love me that low bar squat. HIPPPP DRAAAAAAAHHHHHVE.
Point youre nippels to the ground
@@swagotisreal7971 Chest raisins facing the ground pls
Low bar is comfortable me with no pain. High bar hurts my back and neck. I go with what works for me.
The68VeeDub low bar hands on bar placement really bugs my shoulder joints. I usually do high bar but would like to figure out a way where the low bar squat won't effect me like that
The68VeeDub Neck? omg what?
The68VeeDub try adjusting the width of your hands. also, wrap your thumbs over the bar and roll your wrists forward.
Kamikaze Gorilla you sound like an imbecile.
If you think high bar is uncomfortable you are doing it wrong.
Great video Alan!
So that's why my hamstrings are getting huge but the quads aren't doing shit.
do front squats
You're probably just built like a girl, no matter how you squat.
+No Prob Do girls have huge hamstrings?
Lol
Im the other way around I build big quads but not the glutes or hamstrings
I do low bar and I feel WAY less stress on my knees! Love them
Same. When i high bar squat my knees are "ticking" always
this is the most genius summary of squatting hi v lo - I finally got my head round all of your points, much appreciated
Spit out my coffee when I saw the "shit in the woods" scene.
Thanks for another great video man. I've been doing only low bar squats for over a year, but I think you've convinced me to switch to high bar because I also do deadlifts. This is so informative really helped me. I think you have the best strength channel on youtube, keep em coming!
I’m so jealous of that ankle mobility, daaamnnn
Used several of these cues (this video and 'Fixing Your Squat") this a.m. with my CrossFit classes. As always Alan your videos are entertaining, funny as shit, well edited, and most importantly...honest, logical, anatomically-referenced, broad-based, interesting, relevant, consistent, and accurate. I know this video is over 1 yr old now but it will stand the test of time. Thanks for all you do man!
This video just taught me that I've been doing low bar squats in a high bar position for probably close to two years.... Poor flexibility has been a bane.
Most educational and comprehensively elaborated video
I've basically been low bar squatting forever because my first exposure to lifting was Rippetoe's starting strength. It feel so natural that high bar seems like a different language. What I've started doing recently is using the front squat and the safety bar squat as accessories, I think it's just better to do everything unless you're training for a specific sport but even then nothing wrong with changing it up and trying new things. good video you've got a new subscriber :D
***** I used to only highbar then I realized that contrary to what some say is a myth, a person can definitely squat heavier by getting a good low bar technique. but then I stopped high bar and my quads got weaker. when I went back to try hb it felt so weird that I felt like I was doing a front squat from being so much more up right. I agree definitely incorporate both of them in your training. im not shit talking this guy in the vid but I don't know why he made it seem as if you should choose between them. getting a strong low bar can benefit anybody that wants to get stronger for and reason
steve k He never out right side not to do both. He was asked to chose one and his reason for choosing high bar was that the deadlift (assuming you are deadlifting) will hit the muscles that the high bar does not and if you are deadlifting, the high bar will hit muscles the lowbar does not target as much. So for the general population that are deadlifting as well, he suggests the high bar is the way to go to better hit the hip hinge and squat movements
The best video I’ve seen explaining the difference between the two techniques. Thank you
nice video! Most people will try to avoid explicitly saying which one is better, but you have the gut to give a clear answer. I did low bar for some time and when switched to high bar, man it is totally different. I feel more in control, and it enhances my mobility and stability. Also ATG high bar squat is a quick fix to any ego problems....
O
dude puts up the most informative useful 10 or minutes on the utubes. thanks Alan.. keep them coming.
This is the best video I've found on the topic of low bar vs. high bar squats. Another kick-ass vid, man.
I personally stick with the low bar squats for my heavy workouts because they allow me to load more weight onto the bar. I do, however, incorporate lighter front squats as an assistance exercise to target the quads as you described in this great video. Thanks, Allen.
Most informative video on the internet! Answered all questions we’ve been pondering but never asked! With a slightly tweaked Starting Strength program , I find myself doing both. However, as someone with a ridiculous inside leg measurement, I find that I have to low bar as the weight goes up, otherwise I can’t maintain balance due to femur length.
8:15 LMAO! that caught me off guard
🤣🤣🤣 as I read you comment it came up
Legitimately the best video on this topic I've seen
Man why the hell has it taken 15yrs of my ametuer ass lifting for someone to explain this too me. No wonder I fatigue hard when I squat (have always done low bar) and deadlift heavy in the same week sessions! Do you do custom programs for people?
Great explanation. I wanted to thank you after 5 years the video released.
Now that Alan is a certified SSC I would love to hear his opinion / review on this video. SS primary focus is on low bar so much so that it states that its actually the only form of squats.
I wondered the same thing. Then I realized he answered this just last week. Here you go th-cam.com/video/UFs6E3Ti1jg/w-d-xo.html
7 years later and we still find good stuff in this video !
As someone who's done low bar for years, I found it very beneficial to include high bars as well, guad gainz
This truly is the best explanation that I have ever seen explaining the low vs high bar squat. Your videos are intelligent and informative. Thanks so much. I can high bar squat 355 for 2 and cannot get past this point. I don't belt, just wearing knee sleeves. I have recently tried low bar and I break at the knees and not hips. It feels like the weight is going to pile drive my face to the floor. My quads are definitely way stronger than my posterior chain and with me not deadlifting , the high bar feels more comfortable.
Super super helpful, thank you! I think I've been holding the bar in high position but sending my hips back like for a low bar squat. Will clean it up next time. :)
Thanks man. I was having issues when shitting on camping trips. But now see that my form was all wrong. I will work on my high bar squats to better prepare for my next trip.
Hi Alan:
I watched 3 videos and thanks for helping correct the forms for squatting and deadlifting. sitting in the office all day, i need to train 4/5 days a week. you're very knowledgeable and know your stuff. Great work here!
I'll switch to high bar because my squat is the same as my low bar squat. I definitely noticed a difference with the quads with the squat.
Last, you're funny as hell! I'm sure you're inspiring a lot of people.
Ferdie
thank u sooo kuch +Alan Thrall , i often do th high bar squat nd people say i m doing wrng. ....... so i was searching fr dis whole tym nd jumped onto ur video,, now ihave no queries left !!!!!! thank u soooo much
I do low-bar, but I agree with you to a point.
You said that people who are getting into general fitness should do HB. I don't think so. Poeple who are getting to general fitness need to get as strong as possible, put some muscle on, start moving. They should do low bar, 'cause it's less requiring in terms of mobility. You said it yourself, squatting low bar style puts more muscle on. You should do low bar for muscle, if you're starting lifting, and front squat for your posture, quads, mobility. Front Squat is better than HB squat for posture, because you can fuck up technique on HB and still perform a lift, but you can't fuck up technique on FS and perform the lift.
Both are very good. Doing both of them will increase ur strenght in many aspects.
8:14 yeah but if you were taking a dump in the woods would you do it with a thousand pounds on you back?
Then the shit will just explode out of your ass
Would you dump in the woods with a thousand pounds on your back in anyway? I wouldn't I wouldn't even trust a forklift with a thousand pounds over me.
I just made the move from high bar to low bar and I love it.
I feel like there is a better mind muscle connection can't explain it but with the weight lower on my bar makes my legs TRAIN UNTAMED!
Thanks, Alan! I love all your videos. This was very informative. Could you also create a video on the different deadlift variations too?
That comparison between deadlift and low bar squats was very helpful. I was doing low bar squats with low bar and doing deadlift. Thanks
Thank you so much, this was really informative. I've been getting lower back pain and this helped me figure out my form.
Dude. This video just blew my mind. Can't wait to look into more of your videos
I really love watching all your videos. Especially this one I'm about to start the stronglifts 5x5 and I'm really worried about the squatting part of it cause I was born with clubfoot and now as a adult in my 30s I have really bad ankles and have even had to get a ankle fusion on my left ankle but I really want to work out and get stronger and more muscle. So watching this video gives me some hope that I will be able to at least do the low bar squats. Thanks again.
"if you were too take a shit in the woods" that is now how I explain this too my clients!
great video and great advice!
Im a 15 year old female, and i want to try leg day for the first time i ever go to the gym. But the thing is i dont know if the hand/feet placement has to specifically go somewhere. Can I get any hepp
Alan's problem got tons of videos for this question
Thank you my brother, I never leave comments. However, in this case, your drive for information to us, was my drive to give you props! ) Knowledge is powah!
Been doing 99% LBS. Definitely got stronger, weight and plates went up. I really doubt my quads grew much or at all. I'll switch up to HBS, though I'll be starting from scratch with them.
Daniel McIsaac No need to switch, just add HBS or front squats to your program
Daniel McIsaac Were they ass to grass though?
Daniel McIsaac And were you going too wide with your stance?
***** No. I'm 6'8", and getting that low at high weight is not doable just yet. Parallel is good for me. And stance too wide? Nope. A little more than shoulder width to get parallel.
Daniel McIsaac I did the same thing. got better at low bars and started using them for all heavy sets. only used hb for warming up. I went back to trying hb with decent weight for sets of what I would consider high reps, and my quads were mo fuckin weak as they've been in a long time. so, back to reps with hb until the quads get back in the game. and then I can mix up the two
This was exactly the video I was looking for. Thank you Mr. Thrall!
I've always wanted to learn how to shit in the woods.
Probably the best squat vid ive ever seen. Alan is brilliant
hold the phone hold the phone. so youre telling me that if I squat low Bar ass to grass I can activate my quads just as much as I would in a high Bar squat???!!! if that's true we have just found an amazing hybrid squat
but it's quite hard
No. High bar is quads from vertical to nearly 90 degrees
It’s not really a hybrid squat if you squatting low bar.... it’s a low bar squat lol
Out of all the squat videos this is the best
I'm always looking to improve my squat, great vid Alan.
MrTheSlash3r hes feet are a bit wider on the low bar ( ya i know the vid was cut but look close) but for someone people they still manage to have an upright posture. guess its experience and strength
Excellent! The who/when/why for each solved a problem for me -- as a person with the mobility difficulties that make the high-bar version VERY difficult and unnatural feeling.
Damn right I'd do it in the low bar position. Don't wanna shit on my shoes.
+User Name your feet are too narrow then ;)
This has helped my back. Low bar squats are a great seqway to proper high bar as it develops mobility.
I just switched to high bar from low bar squatting and love it. I can't move as much weight, but fuck it, I'm not 25 anymore. Bottom line is, my quads a growing like weeds and my back feels 100x better the next day.
easily the clearest video on the topic
tfw when i squat low bar with knees past my toes so i can stay upright.
upright low bar squats are the way to go for raw squatters.
i have never known what the difference is between high/low bar squatting until i watched this video. after watching this i identified ivr been doing low bar squatting but ass to grass and this really enlightened me about the pros and cons of it. thanks for the video.👍
Great vid! I never really thought about how different these types of squats were mechanically, thanks for the great information. Would love to hear your take on high bar vs front squat. Personally I think front squats are far superior to any back squat to increase leg strength.
Man, you explained this perfectly. Love it
F me! i thought these were different types of bar!
😂😂😂😂
Great video. As a man that has neglected legs for years and just getting back into...very informative! Thank you sir.
Thanks for explaining so clearly! It seems I'm not a high bar candidate due to tight ankles. I was wondering why my squats never get as deep as others seem to be able to go! Maybe I can work on that now that I know what the issue is
let me know if you find a reliable method to do this. same issue
+incogenator same - if you find a way let me know. I have one funky hip too so that doesn't help either. AND I have a somewhat weaker core & pelvic tilt issues going on which gives me even more issues due to tight hamstrings- basically the whole back side of my legs are tight. My trainer sometimes puts a foam riser under my heels for certain types of squats like plié squats which helps my mobility a lot. But I hope there's some posture correction stretches or training that can be done.
Yeah I have tight ankles and anterior pelvic tilt, and left hip is just bad for some reason (never injured I guess it's a genetic defect). I found I can do the weights under the heel trick to squat deeper & improve posture, but I find my knees then get upset when I go past 90 degrees 😖 oh well maybe I was just not meant to go ass to grass. I've been finding non-squat or modified squat moves to work my legs. RDLs, step ups, side squats, plié squats, back lunges (but not front lunges), glute kick backs, glute bridges, hiking, stair climber, etc.
You deserve 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 because of how much knowledge you put in here 👍🏻
Fantastic video and to the point, subbed.
H3H3 huh?
Strength MM Who?
Just kidding, love h3.
+Hugh Mungus especially that video about Hugh Mungus.
Great job Alan. I have a son that just started lifting and was about to talk to the coach about my son's bad form in the squat. He was just high bar squatting with bad form. Now I know what to show him.
6 movement patterns 7:00
1. Push
2. Pull
3. Squat
4. Bend
5. Twist
6. Lunge
7. Gate
... Um that's 7... But thanks for the insight
Gait**
ATG high bar is my favourite
I did ATG high bar for years, past couple months I've swapped to low bar at a couple inches above ATG. High bar is garbage in comparison. Make the swap bro.
@@dasgoat76 why
@@OneDerscoreOneder It just feels way more natural to me. Although my back is fucked, so I can't speak for everyone.
@@D4rkGh0zt It just feels way more natural to me. Although my back is fucked, so I can't speak for everyone.
@@dasgoat76 Yeah, but you don't build bigger quads with the low bar according to this video.
My ankle mobility is trash and I've thought my form is wrong for so long due to this limitation. I definitely noticed over the years I don't stay as upright as other people. Found this video!!! Now I realize I've simply adapted to the low bar squat over time without realizing it. Thanks for this! Gonna try and keep my form correct, sticking to the low bar.
Still waiting for the how to shit in the woods guide, please release!
great video. appreciate the time it took to put this together.
Am I the only who thinks that the low bar squat has been better for their lower back than the high bar squat? When I squatted high bar, my lower back would get beaten up and would hurt a lot more when I squatted. When I started squatting low bar, it just felt so much better for my lower back. Plus, I can squat a lot more with the low bar squat than with the high bar.
+Zachary Wheeler Your high bar form probably sucks, maybe you sit back similar to a low bar squat or lean too far foward.
+Chris R pretty sure sumo deadlift works more hams then quads. I think close stance deads work more quads
+Zachary Wheeler Under your foot, where do you feel the most pressure? Front or back, or is the pressure even? If you feel more pressure on the front, it means that you are leaning forward (bad form).
Andy Butler
Not exactly true what if they are using perfect form but are too tight in certain places causing them to butt wink? That opens the lower back up to injury.
High bar actually hurts the spine disks more than low bar, because of the compression of the spine due to the upright position.
Nice!! Very helpful to me. Thanks for making the time to make these videos.
Outstanding video thank you very much
excellent explanation and demonstrations. I really appreciate it. I'm going to try low bar today for the first time
hilarious. I definitely need to work on squats for shitting in woods. lol
Wow this is probably one of the most informative fitness video's I've ever seen! Thank you!
you just got another subscriber thanks for the great video it really helps.
i learned a lot more than i expected to. thank you sir
What about for tall people? I'm 6ft 6 and have been told by someone who studies weightlifting that for tall people the lowbar squat is better. I do was to grass squats as well and have found that lowbar squating has improved my motivation tonsquat as well as I am finding it far more comfortable. I'm a discus thrower s squatting is a big part of my training.
Andrew Bowsher I am 6'6 as well and have been doing high bar. Reached 140kg PR at 91kg bw. Work on the form and ankle mobility. Also add posterior chain work such as RDL's and hip thrusts
Alan is now my favorite lifting dude in YT. I used to watch Athlean-X but doesn't cover much like Alan. Good shit
8:14 had me tripping and then rolling.
Dude, your stuff is awesome. So many people are afraid to make a statement. I like that you're willing to say things like most people should be going high bar.
Low bar feels way more natural for me. I tried high bar for six seasons and my hip flexors started hurting so bad I could barely squat the empty barbell
Same, but I'm still trying to figure out why. Was I doing it incorrectly or is it just my anthropometry.
@@thisismylovehandle Lowbar forces your glutes to work. If you have weak glutes, you'll run into endless problems high bar squatting such as weak hip flexors or impingement because your quads are shifting the weight pulling the hip capsule more in the direction of your quads. A few weeks of lowbar squatting and extra glute work will fix that
Love how I got a laugh and useful information out of this !
A collab between Allan Thrall and Elliot Hulse would be so dope. Think about the lifting knowledge that would be getting talked.
Elliot would want to lie down on massage beds and scream to himself whilst Allans trying to teach us how to squat though.
Insaniteh0110 Is that a problem? Or you afraid of the lunk alarm. bruh...
Cane Sugar N-no. I'm too scared of actually lifting weights :(
Insaniteh0110 not sure if sarcasm
+kcwarren01 DUDE YES! Elliot went from lifting to life coach and his shit got annoying fast.