Proper Squat Form: Is Starting Strength Wrong

[magomago]

So I got the book as my new years resolution is to actually lift weights in addition to cardio. i wanted to make sure my time is worth my while, and I've heard of praises of the book.

That said, its hard for me to understand exactly how he reccomends the mechanics of a squat because of the writing style; I went online to youtube for videos to help explain, and I came across this

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yha2XAc2qu8

And immediately after that, I saw this video and went ugh

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GynDZgEB1U0

Suggestions, advice, or alternate sites that do a better job explaining with videos and pictures of what I need to be doing?

Edit:

I should add this video as well, which is how the 2nd guy reccomends it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zoZWgTrZLd8

 

[Zivic]

my two cents is that rippetoe offers up good technique for the dead lift, but I would look elsewhere for squat advise

 

[Maleficus]

http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLD7BE939BB32B4CAB

 

[SP33Demon]

Rippetoe's technique isn't the best, you're asking for lower back issues in the future with that style. I agree with the 2nd guy's technique better and use that technique but only after wrapping my knee since my knees are messed up from Track and Field sprinting.

However, my lower back is also kind of messed up since I herniated a disc so I don't max squat as much. I'd recommend checking out Jeff Cavalier's stuff (I incorporate a chunk of his AthleanX program into my powerlifting) and would recommend single leg training if you want to keep your lower back from being at risk. I add it in every other workout to mix things up and you'd be surprised how much more you can press per leg vs squat max. The barbell Bulgarian split squat is a killer exercise if you really want to see your legs reach their potential and it saves your back from extreme weights every time you squat.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9rU44PwpEs

 

[magomago]

Lol its amazing how everyone talks about 'proper form' yet there is such a variance. That said this is what I think I've learned:

Regardless of form, I seem to really lack flexibility to the point that it prevents me from having proper form during a squat.
I can't squat all the way down without getting on my toes, lest I risk losing balance (which has happened a few times). I'm simply practicing with a broom stick (bristles are deattached) and nothing else.

Doing some more googling has led me to this video that really emphasized how flexibility is needed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rq8CWv8UPAI&list=PLC03D688F10C4DE1F


+ At 2:56, I cannot do the wall squat without getting on my toes, or smashing my knees into the wall
+ At 5:40 I can't do a wall walk very far down
+ At 6:50, the Hamstring stretch puts his body in a 50 degree position (angle between the back and legs). The same angle on me is about 120 degrees.

Sounds like I need to spend some train training to improve flexibility for the form first before I even attempt any weights. There are suggesting about sticking plates under your feet, but I haven't seen any information really corroborate that it is a safe thing to do.

Any other comments is appreciated.

 

[brad310]

I wouldnt say "wrong". Just a different option. I learned first with his method, but then changed it up as i progressed and learned to listen to my own body.

The low bar causes too much forward lean with me as i descend. I can keep a stronger and flatter back with a high bar.

I do still prefer to keep my arms closer and not wrap my thumbs around.

I also prefer a slightly wider, more toes out, knees out, movement.

You have to do that with pretty much all this kind of stuff. Let someone teach it the way they like, then figure out what works and what doesnt for yourself. Alot of the fitness and powerlifting stuff is like religion, everyone has their own beliefs...just take what you want from it.

 

[Deeko]

Here's the thing about squat form - no matter what various experts say, there is no one way to squat. Everyone's body is a little different, everyone's bone structure is slightly off, therefore, not everyone will squat the same way. It's just not mechanically possible. It's just a matter of starting with a decent base, and adjusting for what feels right and is safe for you.