Squat Depths

 

Squat Depths  The squat can be measured to a number of depths. For example :

• A2G Squat – “Arse to Ground”, “Ass to Grass” or “As Low As You Can Go”; a very deep full squat
• Full or Parallel Squat– Powerlifting style competition (minimum) required depth. Hips parallel with knees / leg forming a right-angle; the depth of
  

  "Full" or "Parallel" Squats

  squat all other methods are usually measured against

• Bodybuilder Style Squat – Almost parallel but with emphasis on the point of perceived maximum muscular effort/contraction, in practice often a little above parallel as no-one disqualifies a bodybuilder for not making/breaking parallel; virtually (but not quite) a full squat.
• Half Squat – A fairly deep knee bend but no attempt to reach parallel; a partial range squat.
• Quarter Squat – A moderate knee bend; a partial squat
• Ultra Squat – A small-range dip, mimicking the action of the legs when running at ultra-distance pace; a partial squat.

Typically, squatting below parallel qualifies a squat as “deep” while squatting above it qualifies as “shallow”. The depth or type of squat used in training should be determined by the training goals. However, it is almost always wise to include some parallel or preferably below-parallel squatting as part of an overall squat programme.

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