What depth is suggested for the overhead squat assessment?

The recommended depth for the overhead squat assessment is for the femur to be parallel to the ground. This position is indicative of adequate strength, flexibility, and balance, allowing assessment of overall movement quality and the function of the muscles involved. Achieving this depth demonstrates proper mechanics, which is crucial for identifying any compensatory patterns or muscle imbalances.

When the femur is parallel to the ground, it suggests that the athlete has sufficient range of motion at the hips, knees, and ankles while maintaining an upright torso and aligned posture. This helps to prevent injury during more dynamic movements and ensures the effectiveness of a fitness program. Additionally, this assessment serves as an effective tool for determining an individual's readiness for higher levels of physical activity.

Other depths, such as hips below the knees or squatting to the ground, may be appropriate in different contexts or for more advanced athletes, but for the specific purpose of assessing foundational movement quality in various populations, parallel to the ground is most appropriate.