Squatting from Squat position

[eastbourneguy]

Hi, I have a Powertec leverage system which is ok for most of what i need, the only problem with it is for squats, basically you have to start from the squat position and push up, I don't think that this is particularly good. Should you start from the standing position or is it ok to start from squat?

I am about to start the 5x5 program and will probably invest in a squat rack, any recommendations?

Thanks

 

[mike456]

sell it, and buy a bench, freeweights (olympic), and a squat rack

 

[PWGriffin]

Invest in a gym membership if possible.

 

[eastbourneguy]

I'll probably keep the powertec as it is good for cable stuff and it has served me well so far, I bought it because i didn't really want to join a gym, the only ones around me are full of machines and you pay through the nose for membership to get nice scenery and free water, I would rather train at home where i can train when i want, and listen to what i want, and not have to watch people sit on benches and talk to each other for 20 minutes pretending to work out. Sorry, bit of a rant there!

 

[mike456]

I'll probably keep the powertec as it is good for cable stuff and it has served me well so far, I bought it because i didn't really want to join a gym, the only ones around me are full of machines and you pay through the nose for membership to get nice scenery and free water, I would rather train at home where i can train when i want, and listen to what i want, and not have to watch people sit on benches and talk to each other for 20 minutes pretending to work out. Sorry, bit of a rant there!

sell it, and buy a bench, freeweights (olympic), and a squat rack

 

[mike456]

tell me what your going to do with "cable stuff" that you cant do with freeweights, squat rack, and a bench.
That machine takes out alot of stabilization work wich is very important.

 

[fufu]

Starting the squat from the bottom portion of the rep is referred to as a "suspended squat". So are you using a strictly lever machine or a cable aparatus?

Starting the rep from the bottom is harder because you have to generate more force since you are moving dead weight. In contrast, when you start from the top you have the "stretch reflex" on yourside. There is nothing bad about doing it, it definantly has its place in training; it can help increase your force output from the hole doing a conventional squat. Better than doing no squats at all.

 

[eastbourneguy]

Well, I incorporate lat pulldowns and tricep extensions using cables, I also do bicep curls with it as well (I know i could use a dumbell). I also find it good for things like bench press, incline press and shoulder press. it's probably a bit safer to use at home as i don't have anyone to spot for me and so if i do fail then i won't get crushed!!

 

[fufu]

Well, I incorporate lat pulldowns and tricep extensions using cables, I also do bicep curls with it as well (I know i could use a dumbell). I also find it good for things like bench press, incline press and shoulder press. it's probably a bit safer to use at home as i don't have anyone to spot for me and so if i do fail then i won't get crushed!!

That is why you make your sure form is on spot and you start with a reasonable weight. Most gyms have a safety feature on their racks; they have bars that can be adjusted at certain heights to catch the weight if need be.

 

[eastbourneguy]

Thanks, starting a squat from that position certainly does feel harder!! I will be investing in a squat rack I think, it does feel like starting in that position puts more strain on my legs and back.

 

[fufu]

Thanks, starting a squat from that position certainly does feel harder!! I will be investing in a squat rack I think, it does feel like starting in that position puts more strain on my legs and back.

A squat rack, or power rack for that matter, is a great investment. If you have that along with a bunch of olympic plates and a bar, you are all set.

Make sure you get your form really tight before pushing up, the first part of the lift tends to be isometric which can feel like it is putting quite a bit of strain on the body.

 

[eastbourneguy]

thanks, I already have a bar and the weights so i think i will invest in one

 

[fufu]

 

[mike456]

Well, I incorporate lat pulldowns and tricep extensions using cables, I also do bicep curls with it as well (I know i could use a dumbell). I also find it good for things like bench press, incline press and shoulder press. it's probably a bit safer to use at home as i don't have anyone to spot for me and so if i do fail then i won't get crushed!!

witch a power rack you can do pull-ups (better than lat-pull downs ) All the other exercises you named can be done with freeweights and are more beneficial, and the power rack will kee you safe and warm on all of those lifts

 

[assassin]

tell me what your going to do with "cable stuff" that you cant do with freeweights, squat rack, and a bench.
.

and a pull up bar

 

[mike456]

and a pull up bar

yea, most power racks have a pull-up bar