Tension during squat

[d234]

Hello,

Should there be any conscious effort to build and maintain tension in the hamstrings and glutes at the start and decent of the squat? This would feel somewhat like a flexing the muscles.

Thanks.

[Leah Lutz]

Hello! I would not cue that at all. I'd want to see you get tight, overall, meaning brace, set your torso and take your breath. Then squat. :-) Your hamstrings and glutes should then do their thing as you move.

[d234]

Hello! I would not cue that at all. I'd want to see you get tight, overall, meaning brace, set your torso and take your breath. Then squat. :-) Your hamstrings and glutes should then do their thing as you move.

I see...but does staying tight overall relate to the lower body as well or just bracing the torso?

[Leah Lutz]

Sure does, but you can cue yourself to brace and that should be enough. There are only so many things you can think about while moving under a barbell, very few that actually help. Trying to maintain tension that should be just happening as you lift is kind of unneeded mental focus.