Front Squat Partial Depth

Return to List of Squat Exercises

Overview

The Front Squat Partial Depth is a fundamental exercise for beginners. It mimics the position of the body when the bar is caught on the shoulders in the Power Clean and Clean. From start to finish in the set, the athlete must work hard to keep elbows high, chest up, and avoid any change of spinal shape.  

Key Coaching Points

1. Breathing in before downward movement and maintaining full inflation of the chest until standing out of the squat.
2. Feet slightly wider than hip width.
3. Restrict depth to above ‘parallel’ (see figure 1 below).
4. Bracing the body in a slightly forward lean position while performing movement.
5. Keeping elbows raised high with bar against neck.
6. Palm of hand open with all fingers behind the bar.
7. Slow and controlled descent.