Front vs Back Squat
In weightlifting that is done to build muscles and strength in the body, there are two different weightlifting positions known as front squats and back squats. Both these forms of weightlifting exercises are designed to develop muscles of thighs, buttocks, hips and also to strengthen ligaments and tendons in legs. Many people remain confused between front and back squat believing front squat to be enough. This article attempts to make clear the differences between these two weightlifting exercises.
Front Squat
While the back squat is no doubt a very good weightlifting exercise dubbed as the king of all exercises, one should not discard front squat as being unimportant or of any less significance while building body or trying to develop muscles. Many people do not do front squat at all or do it only as an afterthought. This is a variation of squat where the barbell rests on the front shoulders of the individual in contrast to back squat where the barbell rests on back shoulders or upper back. Front squats have been found to be great for quads, and one can build bigger and stronger quadriceps.
Back Squat
Back squat is a weightlifting exercise that is a favorite among those starting on a bodybuilding regime and also those working upon their lower leg, back, hamstring, quadriceps, and glutes. Holding the barbell on your upper back or back shoulders is a lot easier and natural than holding it on your front shoulders. Back squat makes the spine to flex. It has been observed that back squat has a great impact on spine and doing back squats makes one’s spine strong.
Front Squat vs Back Squat
• One holds barbell in a different position in these two squat positions with the barbell on front shoulders in front squat and on the upper back in back squat.
• Back squat targets hamstrings and glutes directly while front squats have a direct impact on quadriceps.
• Back squats are considered as the best weightlifting exercises for lower leg muscles
• There is lesser compression of the knees and the lower back in case of front squats and, therefore, lesser risks of injury to lower back and knees
• The base of the neck is where the barbell rests in the case of back squats.
• The entire weight is in front of the person on his front shoulders, in front squats.
• Front squat can be more challenging for some people than back squats that come naturally for all.