Started SL today, couldn't squat with bar

Bchlvr64

I couldn't do squats with bar. I was so bummed as I thought just by looking at the bar it would be a piece of cake. Instead I used a 20 lb kettle bell for squats only. Rows and bench press I could use the bar. Anyone else have this experience? Any advice? Hubby got me a broom handle to practice form. The problem I was having was form and too much weight.

ardysedwardsmcgrath

i have troubles with squats due to my weight also.. good idea bout using the broom! i never thought of that.. I need to work out to make my knees more stronger..

Sued0nim

Start with broom handle and sitting down on box and standing again

It won't take long to work up

Nothing is as easy as it looks but one day you'll squat your body weight and more

subakwa

I have been doing SL 3 weeks and I struggled with the bar and form on the first day. I have now just deloaded from 37.5kg to 30kg to work on form and depth again, and I practiced with just the bar for warm-up and that felt easy. So, there is hope! Things do improve quickly, although I do suck at squats compared with the other lifts.

Keep at it, it all gets better and the changes are worth it - I can feel them in me just now after those 3 weeks. Very encouraging!

KDar1988

I can't squat with the bar on my back because of mobility issue with my shoulders. I'm still trying though. I do front squats which are pretty cool. Keep at it, you'll get there!

nowine4me

Keep working and you will progress quickly. Mind that form and know that you WILL eventually need fractional plates (easily obtained on Amazon).

middlehaitch

Does your gym have body bars?
(Those bars that have padding and are used in circuit classes.) I started with those, got the form and balance using an incredibly light weight, working up the bodybar weights then switched to a 17.5 bar where I can add at my discretion.
I am still not squating a 45lbs bar- I look on that as my goal.

Cheers, h.

SideSteel

I would do frequent goblet squats along with technique practice on the back squat using something lighter.

cqbkaju

Don't be embarrassed.
Many people (including guys) are not as strong as they think.
You might be surprised at how many people cannot deadlift their bodyweight for more than a rep or two.
Or how many people cannot do a full pull-up / chin-up.

I invested in a "SS Yoke Bar" for squats.
A bit expensive but worth it, in my opinion.
I also highly recommend a trap bar for deadlifts.
Of course, I have a squat rack at home so...

Until, then you can try goblet squats as recommended or just squat a 20 lb "exercise bar" that takes standard plates instead of Olympic.
Add weight to the standard bar until you can manage at least 50 lbs or so.

Bchlvr64

Thanks everyone. I have been doing goblet squats. Did OHP 45 lbs and DL 90 tonight no problem. I'm so excited to do this and will stay the course, patiently.