Practical Applications: Squat Science with Dr. Sean Flanagan

Squat Tips:
✅ Exercise Mechanics: The squat is a triple flexion and triple extension exercise, engaging the hip, knee, and ankle to lower and raise the body.
✅ Knee vs. Hip Dominance: The squat isn't necessarily knee-dominant; it depends on the type of squat. For example, the back squat involves more hip contribution, while the front squat involves more knee contribution.
✅ Technique: Technique can vary based on the type of squat and body type, but generally, all loaded squats should maintain a neutral spine and avoid valgus collapse.
✅ Resting vs. Loaded Squat: The resting squat differs from a loaded squat because it has no load, allowing for spinal flexion is ok and has the potential to help one relax and recover.
✅ Variety for Health: For health and longevity, prioritize a variety of squats rather than mastering just one type.
✅ Single-Leg Work: If recovering from an injury on one leg, incorporate single-leg exercises into your recovery training when ready.
✅ Muscle Engagement: Muscle engagement depends on the squat type. Generally speaking, an upright torso targets the quads more, hips back with a forward-tilting torso targets the glutes, and a stiff-leg position with a forward-tilting torso (similar to a toe touch/hamstring stretch) targets the hamstrings.