Why conquering your fear of the squat will take you to new heights.

In a recent post with Muscular Development, Kai Greene weighed in his opinion on the squat vs. the leg press. While the leg press has it’s place, Kai Greene says the barbell squat is his go to exercise for lower body strength and size.

“If you have ever read a single article about my leg training, and I know there have been at least a couple in MD, you would know how much I believe in the value of the barbell squat. You cannot find a more basic, more demanding or more productive exercise for the lower body. You would also be very hard pressed to find a bodybuilder with anything beyond average leg development who did not build his thighs with plenty of squats over a period of years.”

Now we know you’ve got a lot of excuses, but Kai’s heard them all. The predator himself breaks down the most common reasons people don’t squat, and why you should. Here’s a quick summary on Kai Greene’s thoughts when it comes to making the decision to squat or not. Check it out.

But it feels funny…

Squatting is uncomfortable, we get that. Squatting upwards of 200 lbs with your butt nearly to the floor isn’t the most natural feeling in the world, but that’s fine, the benefits outweigh the brief discomfort. Besides, once you make this part of your arsenal it will be a natural as curling in the mirror, hell, you may even like it.

My form sucks

So you’re form isn’t the greatest, that’s fine. According to Arnold Classic Mr. 2016, if you build it, the form will come. Like anything you’ve got to start small. Start with lower weights and focus on your form. In time you’ll find you’ll gradually be going up in weight.

Pride cometh before the fall

You’re only squatting 230? What will your friends think? Who cares. Don’t be discouraged by the amount of weight your lifting as long as you’re lifting in right. A deep squat at 23o is worth more than a half squat at 500lbs. Stay focused on your form and remember that repetition is the mother of skill.

As a bonus we’ve included a video of Kai Greene showing you how to do his patented Jefferson squat. Try this one if you’re feeling froggy.