A squat works the strongest muscles in the body (legs) directly through the weakest/most prone to injury part of the body (the lower back).
Lower back muscles are far from the weakest in the body, and they figure into almost everything a human does, especially backpacking loads. And yes, they are prone to injury but the leading cause of injury is improper lifting. Not lifting with proper form.
Originally Posted by Brad
My best friend, who is one of the smartest and strongest lifters I know..... He thinks it's one of the worst possible things you can do to your body.
Sorry, but one man's opinion doesn't convince me when there are dozens and dozens who say otherwise.
As far as "why risk it," the answer is two-part. First because squatting is a great exercise as you get older, it helps maintain bone density and muscle mass. And second because if you do it right and don't go for the state record, the risk isn't that great. You just have to know your body and find the right techniques that works for you.
