The Effects of 2 Different Arm Positions on Maximum Trunk Flexion in the Bodyweight Squat

The bodyweight squat is a common exercise and is generally accepted as being safe and easy to perform. Despite the popularity of the exercise, there are many aspects of the movement that have yet to be explored. Technique variations have been shown to alter squat mechanics. Squatting to a specific depth resulted in greater hip flexion but decreased knee and ankle flexion (Flanagan, Salem, Wang, Sanker, & Greendale, 2003). Looking down resulted in increased hip flexion (Donnelly, Berg, & Fiske, 2006). Restricting anterior knee movement resulted in decreased torque at the knee with increased trunk flexion (Fry, Smith, & Schilling, 2003). Foot angle did not affect squat mechanics, but a narrow stance resulted in more gastrocnemius involvement (Escamilla, et al., 2001).