Are there negative issues with deep squats for the over 40 crowd starting back into exercise?
Hi Rick. First, I’m not too sure that I would use YouTube (or any online) exercise videos as the guide as to how you should train your clients. As you know, everyone is different and so a “one-size fits all” answer here is probably not good. A LOT depends on the individual that you’re dealing with. It’s hard to generalize (and probably dangerous too) people by age or any other category. That being said, many baby-boomers have reached an age where orthopedic issues such as osteoarthritis in the knees is not uncommon. In my own practice I do not have my clients do deep knee squats no matter their age. This is my professional choice and I know that there are many, many trainers who do, and many articles on the benefits of same. However, there are probably an equal number of trainers who, like me don’t, and an equal number of research and other articles that suggest that this is not the way to go.
I say do your research, consider your particular clients and then make the decision for yourself – don’t rely on videos that are so abundant on the internet, some good, some bad.
I hope this helps.
LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
[email protected]
Hi Rick,
I believe that the deep knee squat is one of those ‘contra-indicated exercises’ that needs to be viewed in a differential light. If I am on the floor and want to come up to a standing position, I usually do so from a deep knee squat. I have some older clients who want to maintain that ability, and I see nothing wrong with that.
However, if I had any amount of weight on my shoulders, I would think twice about it for myself, and I would advise others not to.
As LaRue pointed out, it depends on the individual circumstances.
Karin Singleton
www.meltnc.com
Deep squats are a contraindicated exercise.
I would suggest that you take the time to understand the biomechanics of the knee joint. In particular the patellofemoral joint. I think after you do that you’ll be able to answer that question for not only individuals over forty but for your clientele under forty years of age.
Best to you.
I think as you can see from the answers you’ve received that this is a controversial issue. There is much research on both sides of the issue (Deep Knee squats are safe vs. Deep knee squats are not safe). As LaRue points out, I would review the research and make a qualified decision for yourself, vs. youtube videos.
As for the client that you mentioned, an older than 40 just getting back to exercising. I’d be concerned about ROM and knee tracking with a deep knee squat. I’d start with other foundational exercises with a person just getting back to exercise or new to exercise no matter the age. For me personally, I do not consider a deep knee squat a foundational exercise.