Crossfit Trainer Practice Test Level 1

What should be targeted when correcting an athlete who is not going below parallel in a squat?

1. Lower

2. Push knees back

3. Widen stance

4. Focus on speed

The correct answer is: Lower

When addressing the issue of an athlete not squatting below parallel, targeting the lower body, particularly the hips and knees, is essential. Squatting below parallel is primarily about the athlete's ability to achieve proper depth through their range of motion. Focusing on the lower body includes encouraging the athlete to engage their hip flexors and strengthen the posterior chain, which are critical for achieving proper squat depth. By emphasizing the lower body, you can help the athlete develop better mobility and flexibility in their hips and ankles. Additionally, teaching techniques such as maintaining an upright torso and driving the knees outward can assist in achieving that desired squat depth. Mobility drills, strength exercises, and specific cues related to the lower body help athletes understand how to better position themselves for a full squat. This approach is vital as athletes may sometimes avoid going below parallel due to limited range of motion or discomfort, which can be mitigated through targeted lower body training. In contrast, adjusting their stance width or focusing solely on speed may not effectively address the primary issue of depth in the squat.