Stalled Front Squat

Training
1

Hi coach, I am in my late 40s and took up weightlifting 2-3 years ago to get back in shape. I am doing well recomping my body and focus entirely on squats, deadlift (440lb 1RM), snatchgrip deadlifts, OHP, rows, chins, dips, powercleans.

I have become obsessed with the front squat for some reason and dream of getting a 315 1RM. However, I have been stalled at about 240-ish for about a year and just cannot lift any more. I don’t really back squat as front squats feel better on my delicate knees for some reason.

I do a lot of paused front squats as well, but is my age a factor - just don’t ‘feel’ there is any more strength in my quads (they have grown notably after I did a smolov Jr cycle for front squat). I got a shaky 275 for one rep after doing smolov, but soon lost strength again. I don’t want to put on weight and am trying to get my bodyfat about 5-6% lower.

Is this the problem maybe, or are there any other movements I could try to strengthen my quads? I have a strong core and don’t think I am leaking energy there (but how can I tell for sure?)

thanks so much for any input.

2

[quote]chigglyboy wrote:
Hi coach, I am in my late 40s and took up weightlifting 2-3 years ago to get back in shape. I am doing well recomping my body and focus entirely on squats, deadlift (440lb 1RM), snatchgrip deadlifts, OHP, rows, chins, dips, powercleans.

I have become obsessed with the front squat for some reason and dream of getting a 315 1RM. However, I have been stalled at about 240-ish for about a year and just cannot lift any more. I don’t really back squat as front squats feel better on my delicate knees for some reason.

I do a lot of paused front squats as well, but is my age a factor - just don’t ‘feel’ there is any more strength in my quads (they have grown notably after I did a smolov Jr cycle for front squat). I got a shaky 275 for one rep after doing smolov, but soon lost strength again. I don’t want to put on weight and am trying to get my bodyfat about 5-6% lower.

Is this the problem maybe, or are there any other movements I could try to strengthen my quads? I have a strong core and don’t think I am leaking energy there (but how can I tell for sure?)

thanks so much for any input.[/quote]

Ideally I’d need to see your front squat (heavy effort) to see what the issue is.

3

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