[KevinGibbs]

Hi all.

I've got weights up until about 100 kg. Problem is that since I don't have any elevated place to lift the weights from, I gotta go all the way to the ground.

Now, I can take the weight and swing it up (in a controlled manner, don't worry) with 40kg weight. The problem is that I can't keep my back straight if I put it on my shoulders, so I gotta do a frontal weight-hold. Problem? With 30 kg, I can do 12 + 10 + 8 easily and don't feel much. With 40 kg, I don't feel much in my legs, but my hands give up at 6 + 3+ 5 reps (interesting that I managed only 3 in the middle ).

So, do I give up on squats and work on my hands until I can finally hold the 40 kg weight long enough to do the 12 + 10 + 8 reps, or what?


Thanks.

[superman_86]

I assume your using a clean grip when front squatting? I agree this grip can be tough for a lot of people due to mobility factors or just not practicing it. I would recommend you use the cross grip but there is no way your going to be able to pull that off when you don't have a rack. That would be my first suggestion to purchase at the least a squat rack or power rack. If money is tight take a look at craigslist. I did a quick search I found a new basic squat rack on Amazon for $129. This is well worth the convenience and most importantly your safety.

If a rack isnt an option do you have any DB's? You could do a ton of squat variations with DB's such as goblet squats, split squats, Bulgarian squats, single leg squats, lunge variations, etc.... Even with your barbell you can do a lot of those with less of a load for your arms but using a single leg will dramatically increase the difficultly. Good luck, let me know if you need anything else.

[Telle]

If you can clean it, then adjust your grip... I use 2 fingers on the bar only when I front squat because of my wrists. Have you tried crossing your hands in front of you (wrists in an x)? Once the weight is cleaned and resting, you can likely adjust your hands safely... practice with the lighter weight first of course though.

[KevinGibbs]

I can't do the clean one, because my hand-muscles aren't stong enough for that. I lift it up like you would lift a dumbbell when doing biceps (except with both hands) and hold it as close to my body as I can.

Now, I read somewhere that the front squat is no where near as good for your leg-muscle building as the back squat is :(

Also, It seems I should have my shoulders forward, not downward. The latter is what happens with my current way of holding.

So.. I guess I need a rack. Problem is that in Finland, that's easier said than done. They cost a HECK of a lot here, as far as I've seen.

[Drewby]

If you don't have a rack try setting the bar up on a pair of saw horses. Get under the bar in your squat stance and stand up. If your saw horses aren't tall enough for you to get under you try a Zercher squat.
Good luck.

[KevinGibbs]

Now aren't you a clever dicky? :D

I'll build a wooden rack! Thanks for the inspiration.. now, where did I put that hammer...

[Magic Wonder425]

I'd recommend the Zercher squat or if not that the lumberjack squat. If you choose the Zerchers extend your arms out and get the bar really into the crooks of your elbow. Your upper arms should keep close to your body to the bar more support.

[KevinGibbs]

Hey - I really like that lumberjack squat!

easy to do and minimal risk of injury. Only bad thing is that increasing weights might be a bit more difficult at home (needs more plates!), but that's a slight issue.

I was wondering, would a weighted vest also add weights in a safe way?

Thanks again!

P.S. A few calls and I got a rack.. for free!! :D