Squat Physiology - a Brief Discussion Essay Example
Abstract:
This report will attempt to define the sports skill ‘the squat’ by describing the associated physiology in its performance. Topics of discussion will include: Mobility and Stability; Development of Force; Coordination of movement; Delivery of Energy; Maintenance of Working Muscles; Integration of Systems and Functions.
Introduction:
Often named “The King of all Exercises”, the squat is a complex movement which targets the Quadriceps, Hamstrings and the Gluteus Maximus muscles, amongst others. It is an exercise which Physiologists, Sports Scientists and Personal Trainers will all agree is a necessary component of any weight lifting or rehabilitation program. "[the squat] is capable of inducing more and faster muscle growth than any other exercise" (Dr. Fred Hatfield).
Advantages of the squat encompass more than muscle growth in the target muscles. Due to the nature of the squat, i.e. the intensity of the movement, it increases testosterone in the body by 1000% in some cases . This testosterone increase benefits all parts of the body when other excercises are performed. Similarly, this increase will help in the building of other muscels in the body.
Discussion:
There are some criticisms regarding the squat, which a minority of physiologists and doctors make. The argument against the squat is that the huge force on the knee joint and associated ligaments is dangerous. The people who believe this are often those associated with the treatment of squat injuries, so they have a rather narrow view of the exercise.
However, studies on the squat and the associated forces on the knee show that it is indeed safe. The strengthening of the muscles around the knee helps to stabilise it in everyday activity and sport alike. Similarly, if overtraining isnt present, it will also have advantages on the ligaments of the knee. In particular, when proper form is used, the stress on the knee tendons is lessened since the hamstrings assist the patellar tendon in
This report will attempt to define the sports skill ‘the squat’ by describing the associated physiology in its performance. Topics of discussion will include: Mobility and Stability; Development of Force; Coordination of movement; Delivery of Energy; Maintenance of Working Muscles; Integration of Systems and Functions.
Introduction:
Often named “The King of all Exercises”, the squat is a complex movement which targets the Quadriceps, Hamstrings and the Gluteus Maximus muscles, amongst others. It is an exercise which Physiologists, Sports Scientists and Personal Trainers will all agree is a necessary component of any weight lifting or rehabilitation program. "[the squat] is capable of inducing more and faster muscle growth than any other exercise" (Dr. Fred Hatfield).
Advantages of the squat encompass more than muscle growth in the target muscles. Due to the nature of the squat, i.e. the intensity of the movement, it increases testosterone in the body by 1000% in some cases . This testosterone increase benefits all parts of the body when other excercises are performed. Similarly, this increase will help in the building of other muscels in the body.
Discussion:
There are some criticisms regarding the squat, which a minority of physiologists and doctors make. The argument against the squat is that the huge force on the knee joint and associated ligaments is dangerous. The people who believe this are often those associated with the treatment of squat injuries, so they have a rather narrow view of the exercise.
However, studies on the squat and the associated forces on the knee show that it is indeed safe. The strengthening of the muscles around the knee helps to stabilise it in everyday activity and sport alike. Similarly, if overtraining isnt present, it will also have advantages on the ligaments of the knee. In particular, when proper form is used, the stress on the knee tendons is lessened since the hamstrings assist the patellar tendon in