Tip: Choose Your Own Squat

The "Right" Squat May Not Be Right For You

We sometimes put artificial limits on ourselves because we're following artificial rules. Here's how it happens:

1. You read an article or book by a respected coach about the best way to squat, and it's very compelling and science-based.
2. You try to do that squat and it feels terrible, even after you spend months working on it, maybe even getting coached.
3. You think, "Well, I guess I just can't squat."

• The artificial rule is: "There's a best way to squat."
• The artificial limit is: "Since I can't squat the best way, then I can't squat."

But maybe that coach's "best way" is really just the best way to squat for 70% of people who have the same goal. You may not be in that 70%, or maybe that's not even your primary goal.

The experts like to use the word anthropometry. That basically refers to things like height, arm length, leg length, torso length, hip width, and all the mathematical ratios between body parts. Humans come in all shapes and sizes, even athletic humans. And one person's "best way to squat" may not be another's.