One of the most common cues when squatting or deadlifting is to “look up”. This presumably keeps people from rounding their back and dropping their chest, but is this the best thing to do?

The...umm...extensor reflex.

The answer, unfortunately isn’t exactly black and white. From a technical standpoint we have to deal with what is known as the extensor reflex. This is essentially the kinetic chain following the lead of the head. If you lean your head back very far (as in looking up in a squat position) the rest of the posterior chain begins to extend as well.

When we are powering out of the hole in the squat, this extensor reflex can create an extended lumbar spine which in turn facilitates anterior pelvic tilt which in turn attenuates maximal glute and hamstring drive–something that is critical in deep angles of flexion.

Furthermore, restrictions in the superficial back line (from Thomas Myer’s work) can promote. hyperextension. He notes the C-spine is an area of tightness and immobility which can be attributed to the origin of hyperextension.

The caveat to all of this is to be certain you not promoting a forward head posture or faux flexion of the spine. Many clients have trouble understanding true flexion as in tucking the chin. At this junction it’s important to educate the client on the value of this.

–
Ryan
www.peak-fast.com
ryan@peak-fast.com