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Changing the stability conditions in a back squat: the effect on maximum load lifted and erector spinae muscle activity

  • Iain Fletcher
    ,
  • Ashley Bagley
Research Output: Contribution to journal Article Peer-review

Open access

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify how changes in the stability conditions of a back squat affect maximal loads lifted and erector spinae muscle activity. Fourteen male participants performed a Smith Machine squat (SM), the most stable condition, a Barbell back squat (BB) and Tendo-Destabilising Bar squat (TBB), the least stable condition. A one repetition max (1-RM) was established in each squat condition, before electromyography (EMG) activity of the erector spinae was measured at 85% of 1-RM. Results indicated that the SM squat 1-RM load was significantly (p = 0.006) greater (10.9%) than BB squat, but no greater than TBB squat. EMG results indicated significantly greater (p < 0.05) muscle activation in the TBB condition compared to other conditions. The BB squat produced significantly greater (p = 0.036) EMG activity compared to the SM squat. A greater stability challenge applied to the torso seems to increase muscle activation. The maximum loads lifted in the most stable and unstable squats were similar. However, the lift with greater stability challenge required greatest muscle activation. The implications of this study may be important for training programmes; coaches wishing to challenge trunk stability, while their athletes lift maximal loads designed to increase strength.

Publication Information

Output type

Research Output: Contribution to journal Article Peer-review

Original language

English

Pages from-to (Number of pages)

Pages 380-390

Journal (Volume, Issue Number)

Sports Biomechanics (Volume 13, Issue 4)

Publication milestones

  • Published - 01/12/2014

Publication status

Published - 01/12/2014

ISSN

1476-3141

External Publication IDs

  • handle.net: 10547/623210
  • Scopus: 84919876212

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