How to Master the Barbell Squat: 3 Simple Rules for Success
Strengthen your entire body by performing squats
As a distance runner, I’ve traditionally scoffed at the squat rack.
You become a better runner by running, duh. You want to run faster? Run hills. Incorporate sprints. You want to run longer? Add in weekly long runs. Go for 3 hour walks.
“Barbell squats have no business in a running program,” I would say. “They’re too stressful. They don’t provide value. They’ll compromise recovery.”
Boy was I wrong. Flat out wrong.
Today, I squat 2–3 times per week. I’ve been doing so for years. Of the 10 pounds of muscle I’ve added since 2017, I credit squats with most of those gains.
I’m consistently injury free. My joints, ligaments and tendons are still able to handle the physical beating that running requires, even as I slip into my mid-thirties.
I’m in arguably the best shape of my life. Let’s get you there too.
Here are three simple rules to mastering the barbell squat, the king of all strength-training exercises.
1. Start light
Many folks make the mistake of squatting too much weight too soon.
