Ask the Strength Coach
with Mark Philippi, CSCS, Philippi Sports Institute
Q. Which is better for developing strength, the front squat or the back squat?
Both are great for developing lower body strength and mass. At PSI we perform both lifts. Being a former powerlifter I much prefer to do back squats but I think because of the bar position forcing the torso to remain upright, the front squat is a more effective total body-training tool and a little safer. While performing a back squat, there is the possibility of flexibility issues or poor technique preventing proper torso position from being utilized causing an individual to lean forward excessively resulting in a low back injury.
While performing the front squat the bar is resting on the front deltoids being held into position with the hands, pointing the elbows forward. If an individual cannot get into the proper position, engage the abs, and hold the torso upright, the bar will fall off of the shoulders before the lower back is excessively strained or injured. Basically the bar position forces you to perform the exercise properly reducing the chance of injury.
About the author Mark Philippi, CSCS
Owner of PSI. UNLV Kinesiology Instructor. Lecture’s Nationally. 15 year Head Collegiate Strength Coach-UNLV. 7-Time World’s Strongest Man competitor. World Powerlifting Champion-1996. Call Mark at (702) 731-1774 with any questions.
