front squat is a free weights exercise that primarily targets the quads and to a lesser degree also targets the calves, glutes and hamstrings ...more
front squat is a free weights exercise that primarily targets the quads and to a lesser degree also targets the calves, glutes and hamstrings.
The only front squat equipment that you really need is the following: barbell. There are however many different front squat variations that you can try out that may require different types of front squat equipment or may even require no equipment at all.
Learning proper front squat form is easy with the step by step front squat instructions, front squat tips, and the instructional front squat technique video on this page. front squat is a exercise for those with a intermediate level of physical fitness and exercise experience. Watch the front squat video, learn how to do the front squat, and then be sure and browse through the front squat workouts on our workout plans page!
When I first started doing the front squat, my wrist flexibility was a huge issue. I first started out doing front squats with straps like this: http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/bIVKa7EfcMU/maxresdefault.jpg
Eventually though, after working on my wrist flexibility, I was able to do the regular front squat grip like this: http://stronglifts.com/wp-content/uploads/rack-position.jpg
Now, my front squat grip feels great and I can kind of "swing right under the bar" and into place like TonyGentilcore advocates in his group: which, BTW, he has a great front squat technique video available in his members only group here: http://www.weighttraining.com/groups/tony-gentilcore
The front squat is a CrossFit staple now, but I can honestly say that I've realized the many front squat benefits long ago. The grip may feel kind of weird at first, but stick with it!!!
I would never have thought I would say this, but if I had to choose the front squat vs the back squat, and I could only choose one, then I would maybe even choose the front squat as the best for me. To me it feels like a much more athletic movement, its great for the core and upper back, and it's a good foundational movement for the other more advanced Olympic lifts since you are getting comfortable with holding the bar in the front rack position.
I would strongly encourage you to use front squats in your workouts if you can and even if the movement feels a little strange at first then progress up to it by doing some front dumbbell squats, some double kettlebell front squats, front squats with wrist straps, etc. Get started doing some front squats!!! :)
I have a hard time getting my arms set up properly for these. I think I just need to work on my flexibility more. It might be a major problem that my upper body is significantly weaker than my lower body.
It targets slightly different areas than the traditional squat. I don't really like these very much, mostly because I find them incredibly uncomfortable all around.
Nevertheless,, I think its very important functional exercise.. you need to have a great degree of flexibility and core strength for them.. in my opinion front squat is a must.