Squat Question

[jolly_roger]

When doing squats (for hypertrophy, not PL'ing), I've always locked my knees out at the top between reps. Should I consider not doing so in an effort to keep my legs under a constant strain? In your opinions, would it make that much of a difference?

Thanks.

[D_Rock112]

In the long run it shouldn't make that much of a difference, however I would suggest not locking any joint out to the point of hyperextension. Just the fact that you are squatting regularly will give you great gains

[buffalokilla]

I agree - complete the movement, but don't hyperextend. This will involve a slight deceleration near the top of the movement. Most people can use a higher load this way than keeping a slight knee bend or a "constant tension," which is more beneficial for hypertrophy.

-Dan

[chillain]

jolly roger wrote:
When doing squats (for hypertrophy, not PL'ing), I've always locked my knees out at the top between reps.

this is a joke, right?

i'm no expert, but i think Dan John is. note slide 6 specifically:

http://danjohn.org/squat101_files/frame.html

[jolly_roger]

chillain wrote:
jolly roger wrote:
When doing squats (for hypertrophy, not PL'ing), I've always locked my knees out at the top between reps.

this is a joke, right?

i'm no expert, but i think Dan John is. note slide 6 specifically:

http://danjohn.org/squat101_files/frame.html

No joke, just an honest question. Thanks for the link. I guess by 'locking out' I just mean 'fully standing' to where there's much less work being performed by the legs - not hyperextending or putting undue pressure on joints, etc.

Anycrap, I've been seeing results with no injuries, so I'll keep on keeping on.

[Sxio]

Dude, your words were "locked" and "out".

If your knees are either locked or out, then you've gone too high.

I feel like I spend all night telling ppl this. And this is on a leg press!

I feel that keeping tension on the muscle is a very good idea that will lead to significant differences in the exercise's effect.