07/10/2026
🔥 Coach's Hot Take:
Once you're in your 40s and beyond, the barbell back squat may not be the best return on investment for most people.
Can you still do it? Absolutely. But should everyone? Not necessarily.
For many adults, the goal isn't to be a powerlifter...it's to stay strong, move well, and avoid unnecessary setbacks. The barbell back squat can place significant demands on the spine, hips, knees, and shoulders, and for some people, the risk simply outweighs the reward.
Instead, I often recommend movements like:
-Split squats
-Goblet squats
-Step-ups
These exercises can build lower-body strength, improve balance and stability, and be easier to adjust to your individual mobility and training experience.
Train for longevity, not just the next workout.
What's your take? ⬇️