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Box squat

The box squat is a progressive exercise on the path to resisted squats (back squat, front squat) (Science for Sport, 2020):

The athlete attempts to perform a squat onto a platform, makes light contact with the platform, and rises without applying any pressure to the platform. The movement relies on the ability of the athlete to achieve stable positions through the entire range of motion.

The athlete begins facing away from the platform at a distance that allows sitting down with thighs parallel to the ground and shins perpendicular to the ground. The toes should point slightly outward.

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The movement is initiated with the athlete beginning a squat. The sensation should be that the buttocks are moving backward, the back is straight, and the chest is up. The arms move forward as a counterbalance. The knees should push slightly out.
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As the athlete descends to the platform, the back should remain straight – the movement should be slow and under control. Weight should be pressed through the heels.
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In the end position, the athlete is lightly tapping off the platform – no weight is applied.
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The athlete should use the muscles of the glutes and quads to initiate the upward movement. The athlete should be pressing up through the heels and not leaning forward or putting weight on the toes or front foot. The arms should remain stable and not assist the upward move.
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As the athlete extends his/her hips and knees, the athlete will move through a quarter squat position. The athlete will lower the arms in preparation for returning to the start position.

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The athlete completes the movement by standing tall and fully extending the hips and knees. The arms return to the side.
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References

Science for Sport. (2020). Coach Academy – Long-term athletic development. Retrieved August 24, 2020, from https://app.scienceforsport.com/products/coach-academy/categories/3342198