Squat Kinematics and Muscle Activation in Running (Cushioned) Shoes, Barefoot, and Weightlifting Shoes
Sinclair J, McCarthy D, Bentley I, Hurst HT, Atkins S
Evidence is still limited and needs further study
Summary
A study of 14 experienced men performing 70% 1RM squats with 3D motion capture and EMG. Cushioned running shoes increased squat depth, knee flexion and rectus femoris activity compared with barefoot. Participants subjectively preferred barefoot, but no biomechanical basis for that preference was found.
Key findings
- 1
14 experienced men performed 70% 1RM squats with 3D motion capture and EMG
- 2
Cushioned running shoes increased squat depth, knee flexion and rectus femoris activity compared with barefoot
- 3
Participants subjectively preferred barefoot, yet no biomechanical basis for that preference was found
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