Biomarker for a well-moving body

The overhead squat is part of many functional movements. It demonstrates fully coordinated total body mobility and stability, with symmetrical positions. While a full deep squat is not often required in modern daily life (not even in some sports and some fitness) most of us do, however, still require components of a deep squat.

I like to think of the Overhead Deep Squat (ODS) as a biomarker for a well-moving body. If ODS mobility and stability is proficient, then that individual usually has good mobility and stability when testing other movement patterns such as lunge, hip hinging, pressing, stepping, etc.

The ODS is great to assess and improve because it is:

• Total Body Mobility (spine, hips, knees, ankles, shoulders, elbows, wrist)

• Pelvic, Core, and Shoulder Girdle Stability

• Total Body Mechanics

• Postural Control

If your overhead deep squat is not where you’d like it….no worries! It is a demanding movement pattern that humbles many of us, myself included! As well, there are further assessments that a movement specialist could help you with to determine what is contributing to your individual squat pattern, and how to improve it through mobility training. The heavy hitters are often:

• Thoracic mobility

• Shoulder mobility

• Hip mobility

• Ankle mobility

• Core motor control

Lastly, DID YOU KNOW THAT A PROFICIENT ODS IS LINKED TO…..

• reduced injuries - aka - more resilient athletes

• greater performance in ALL sports - even linked to gold medals in Olympians

Just imagine how amazing it would feel to have EASE in your overhead squat! Send an email (ashley@movewisetherapy.com) if you’re looking for help with mobility, movement patterns, or skills in your sport.