Question

During a squat, where can the lifter position the bar?

a) Up to 5cm below the posterior deltoid
b) On the anterior deltoid
c) Behind the neck
d) Above the head

Answer 1

During a squat, the bar can be placed on the upper back (high-bar squat) or across the posterior deltoids (low-bar squat) for back squats, and on the anterior deltoids for front squats. Placing the bar behind the neck or above the head is not standard and could be unsafe.

Step-by-step explanation:

During a squat, a lifter can position the bar in several locations relative to their body, depending on the squat variation they are performing. The most common placements are:

• On the upper back: Also known as a high-bar squat, where the bar rests on the trapezius muscle, near the base of the neck, just below the C7 vertebrae.
• Across the posterior deltoids: This variation is typically called a low-bar squat, where the bar is positioned a bit lower on the back, atop the posterior deltoid muscles (but not up to 5cm below them as they may risk injury).
• On the anterior deltoids: This position is used in a front squat, where the bar rests against the front of the shoulders and is held in place by the fingers or arms crossed.

Incorrect positions such as behind the neck or above the head are not standard placements and could lead to injury. It's essential for lifters to use proper form and technique based on the type of squat they are performing.