In these trying times, it’s nice to know that some problems still have simple answers.
So if you have trouble hitting depth in your squats, sometimes you just need a little ankle flexibility.
Here are some of the best ways to work on that.
The taller and longer-limbed you are, the more youll probably notice this.
Long thighbones require flexible ankles.
This differs a bit depending on what kind of squat you’re doing.
Regardless of the pop in of squat, better ankle mobility helps.
With good ankle mobility, youll have an easy time squattingdeep enough, and keeping your feet stable throughout.
So how can you fix this issue?
There are a few easy fixes, some quick and some that require a bit of time.
Try them and see if your air squats feel better.
This means the specialty footwear made for Olympic weightlifters.
(Powerlifters will sometimes call them “squat shoes,” but they’re the same shoes).
These arenotflat shoes like Converse, nor are they shoes with a squishy elevated heel like running shoes.
Proper weightlifting shoes have a hard plastic or wooden heel, typically 3/4" high.
Their sole is completely flat, and makes you feel like you are glued to the floor.
They arenotcomfortable for running or agility work, although hybrid shoes likeMetconsaim to split the difference.
Buying weightlifting shoes is annoying, but simple.
One of the best and easiest stretches is simply to sit into a squat position.
Make this stretch more challenging by adding weight.
All the best squat warmup stretches are a variation on this exercise.
Try the different versions of this stretch, and do them before your next squat session.
