what should i squat

**Robot Jesus** · Posted On: 12/21/2006 12:15am

I’ve been neglecting my legs for far too long.

I’m 250lb at about 20% body fat ( yes I know I’m a fatty)

I’ve always felt I have had a strong lower body but I don’t train it often.

I always have trouble figuring out a starting weight. So does anyone have any tips for me.

**Emevas** · Posted On: 12/21/2006 12:31am

Weights.

Start with the bar, increase weight gradually, find the se that is challenging, then use that in the future.

***JohnnyCache*** · Posted On: 12/21/2006 2:38am

Emevas took my answer

but I was going to just say, "Weights, puto" :icon_thum

If you haven't squatted much before (or ever) the first few times you do it you want to start real light and pyramid up to something that feels like a decent weight - don't try to max out for a while. The squat has a lot of technique and feel to it, and even if you have big legs from another excercise (like hipsled or hockey or something) you're going to be wobbly at first.

Make sure you ask someone what the squat bar weighs if you aren't sure, even though its a newb question

**jubei33** · Posted On: 12/21/2006 4:53am

washing machines...or 1987 buick century

**Lights Out** · Posted On: 12/21/2006 5:03am

If you never squatted before, I'd suggest you perform 4 sets of 10 reps with a moderate to light weight the firts weeks. Focus on technique, until you're sure you're performing the squats right.

You really don't want to do this exercise with a bad technique.

In about two weeks-one month, you should get the proper form.

**PirateJon** · Posted On: 12/21/2006 6:49am

In about two weeks-one month, you should get the proper form.

Not if he doesn't know what the proper form is.

Buy the book "starting strength". Best. Weight. Book. Ever.

**Judah Maccabee** · Posted On: 12/21/2006 6:52am

20% body fat isn't "fatty."

-0-0-

I guess one question is, are you going to be doing actual squats, or using a Smith machine?

Another suggestion is to also practice doing Hindu Squats or unweighted squats. Not the same thing as getting a bar on your shoulders, but it's going to help you get some balance with the position without hurting yourself. You might also find out how your body is oriented. Me, I can't do squats unless I have my toes pointing outward a little because doing it with parallel feet puts tremendous pressure on my knees.

**Lights Out** · Posted On: 12/21/2006 9:26am

Originally Posted by PirateJon

Not if he doesn't know what the proper form is.

Of course, somebody should teach him.

Originally Posted by Judah Maccabee

You might also find out how your body is oriented. Me, I can't do squats unless I have my toes pointing outward a little because doing it with parallel feet puts tremendous pressure on my knees.

Same here, it took me a while to find out.

**daGorilla** · Posted On: 12/21/2006 10:47am

Originally Posted by PirateJon

Not if he doesn't know what the proper form is.

Buy the book "starting strength". Best. Weight. Book. Ever.

I second PirateJon's recommendation. I have this book, and it's excellent.

Also -- as a reference point/jumping off point, check out the squat videos here:

http://www.crossfit.com/cf-info/excercise.html

and here: http://mikesgym.org/index.php

Lots of good info on those sites (both in videos, pics, and message boards) if you're willing to do some homework.