I don't see how lifting lighter weights means greater intensity.
Why does that not surprise me...
Brad, you're really lost as an Easter egg in June on this...both the squats and the intensity.
Lighter weights will always be lower intensity for the same amount of reps, sets, rest, etc...if you're going to claim it to be higher intensity with lower weights you've got to up the others (which you may have meant).
Speaking of intensity, about the only exercises of higher intensity than back squats involve some form of the squat...like cleans, snatches, front squats, etc. Correct form is essential. I've been squatting (in some form) 2 times a week for the past 30 years. High bar/olympic style squats, low bar/powerlifting style squats, front squats, overhead squats, cleans, snatches... Knees and back are still good. I've been in a lot of gyms, competed in powerlifting for years, etc...I've never seen someone injured who was using correct form. I use a lot of the other leg exercises you mentioned as well, but none of them match the results of or serve as a replacement for squatting.
Just some thoughts from a gym rat....with a masters degree in Biomechanics and an NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
