High Bar vs. Low Bar Squats

Training Q&A [Moderated]
1

In the high bar squat, one would have to squat with a more vertical back angle. Consequently the hip angle is more open and the knee angle more closed. Additionally, this would also mean that the hamstrings would slack proximally to the pelvis and stretch distally from the knees. Overall, the hamstrings would be less stretched than they would be when compared to the stretched length in the low bar squat. Doesn’t this mean that less of the stretch reflex is used in the high bar squat than in the low bar squat? Less stretch reflex available would equate to less viscoelastic potential energy that can be used in the vertical upward drive of the squat. So shouldn’t one low bar squat in the context of overall strength?

2

Hey Eddie,

Thanks for the post and welcome to the forum.

Additionally, this would also mean that the hamstrings would slack proximally to the pelvis and stretch distally from the knees. Overall, the hamstrings would be less stretched than they would be when compared to the stretched length in the low bar squat

Based on your explanation in the first sentence, I don’t think you can arrive at the 2nd sentence’s conclusion. So, I disagree that this happens in a meaningful way. The low bar also probably doesn’t use the hamstrings any more (or less) than a high bar squat or front squat unless there are large anthropometric/style differences between an individual.

Doesn’t this mean that less of the stretch reflex is used in the high bar squat than in the low bar squat? Less stretch reflex available would equate to less viscoelastic potential energy that can be used in the vertical upward drive of the squat.

Not at all to either.

So shouldn’t one low bar squat in the context of overall strength?

What is overall strength?

3

Thank you for replying, Dr. Feigenbaum!

What is overall strength to you? How would you define strength?
Also, what anthropometric builds would you recommend doing the high bar squat than the low bar squat?
Is Starting Strength flawed then, by stubbornly emphasizing the low bar squat for ALL trainees?