I was wondering alot people on this board and “Trainers” advocate a shoulder or slightly longer distance between the feet when squatting. Whatever happened to close stance squatting? When i see old videos of Tom Platz, arnold etc they all have a pretty close stance.
Did the wider stance become more popular because its better?
Wider squat = more stability = more reps/weight. For me anyways.
close stance squat puts a crapload of pressure on my meniscus/MCL
I lose all of my strength when I go wider than shoulder width. I don’t know why this is because most people get stronger. I have fairly long legs and should probably squat wide but It just doesn’t feel right. I also don’t feel much quads if I go very wide.
Ive got longiish legs so squatting close is just awkward and i have significantly improved my form, weight, reps and leg size after moving to a squatting stance wider than shoulder distance.
I have the ‘chicken’ legs so to speak, maybe someone with naturally denser legs would find the close squatting easier with the more powerful base?
I just know i need the extra stability and reduced ROM.
I intentionally make use of a closer stance in an effort to focus more stress on my outter sweep (VL).
S
[quote]The Mighty Stu wrote:
I intentionally make use of a closer stance in an effort to focus more stress on my outter sweep (VL).
S
[/quote]
I’ve been doing the same lately.
I also find it hilarious that Stu now has 650 views this month! Must be that shirt CT is wearing, no offense Stu.
[quote]MytchBucanan wrote:
I lose all of my strength when I go wider than shoulder width. I don’t know why this is because most people get stronger. I have fairly long legs and should probably squat wide but It just doesn’t feel right. I also don’t feel much quads if I go very wide.[/quote]
Yeah, I also have very long legs and seem to be stronger and get more of a feel in the quads with a narrow stance. I like to finish with a good 15 rep squat with feet about 6" apart for a good burn to finish off the legs. Hack squats with feet together for the outer sweep in a great exercise also.
My right hip hurts a lot after not so wide squatting… what do I should do?
I believe the idea is that squatting with a close stance will better enhance the development of the vastus lateralis, or outer quad, while using a wide stance will have a greater effect on vastus medialis, or inner-quad, development.
Which is better? The one that’s the most comfortable for you. If you’re comfortable with the squatting stance and position, you should be able to lift more weight which should, with proper form induce greater mass gains.
Personally I move my stance all the time. Often during an extended set.
i.e. Front close 3-4, front wide 3-4, rack, immediatly unrack to back close 3-4, back wide near failure.
Sometimes I pick one and stick to it.