Muscle Gain Forum

How low do you go? Debate squat depth—ass-to-grass or just breaking parallel.
Post tips or form questions for feedback!

I’m in the ATG (ass-to-grass) camp. If your mobility allows, deeper squats build more strength and carryover to athletic movements.

I go slightly below parallel. ATG feels sketchy on my knees if I’m using heavier weights. Depth depends on body type and mobility.

Agreed, Grace. I train powerlifting style — just break parallel, that’s comp-legal. Anything lower feels unnecessary for my goals.

I’m more on the safety-first side. I stop around parallel because my hips get cranky going deeper. But I stretch to improve.

I squat deep, but with lighter weights. For me it’s about control and muscle engagement, not loading up heavy.

Bro, ATG or nothing . That’s how you know you’re not ego-lifting. Plus quads + glutes fire way harder

Nick, not always true. Some lifters have femur length that makes ATG unsafe. Anatomy matters. I usually recommend “as deep as safe.”

I tell my clients: parallel minimum, deeper if you can maintain a neutral spine. Rounding the back is a no-go.

Tony, what’s your take on “butt wink”?