Anyone who is serious about training likes to squat.

Well, let’s be honest – it’s probably more of a love-hate relationship.

Maybe a better way to put it is that everyone who is serious about training respects the squat.

But this leads us to a big question:

How do you teach someone to squat safely, effectively, and in minimal time?

For me, the answer is the plate squat. Here’s why…

After reviewing the video, here are a few big takeaways:

• I prefer the plate squat over the Goblet squat because the elbows don’t get in the way (and push the knees out excessively).
• The reach shifts your center of gravity BACK.
• Shifting the center of gravity back allows you to feel the whole foot.

So with all that being said, here are a few big takeaway points:

• Set-up with the feet hip/shoulder width apart, toes turned out slightly, and knees soft.
• Hold a plate and reach long through the upper back.
• Feel the whole foot and squat as low as you can without losing your lower back position.
  • One of my favorite cues here to keep the foot connection is “Imagine the floor coming up to you.”
• Feel that whole foot and PUSH to return to the starting position.

The plate squat is my go-to squatting progression, and one I think you can use with great success as well.

Give it a shot and let me know what you think!

All the best,

MR