JP Fitness Forums - View Single Post - Lifting Terminology and Posture Clarification

LancelotsLover · 06-03-2009, 11:28 PM

I have been browsing the training logs, and I am puzzled by some of the terminology I have read. I have never had a real introduction to the gym machines and exercise methods, I have just picked up information by reading, watching others, and trying stuff out. So here are some of my questions, and I'm sure I'll think of more as I go:

1. When talking about squats, I see the terms "parallel" and "ATG" a lot. I think the latter means "ankles to glutes"? Which means, am I supposed to be squatting down all the way onto my heels? This isn't how it's pictured in the books, the model is shown what I guess is what people call parallel, meaning lower legs and torso at the same angle? So I've been aiming for that posture, never thinking that going lower is better or recommended. Am I wrong? It seems unthinkable to be able to squat practically on the floor with a 75 pound barbell on my shoulders, and actually stand up again without falling over, but is that what I should be working toward?

2. What do people mean when they talk about being "in the hole"? I can't figure this one out at all.

06-03-2009, 11:28 PM	#1 (permalink)
LancelotsLover Ready for cold. . .sigh. Join Date: Jun 2009 Posts: 840	Lifting Terminology and Posture Clarification I have been browsing the training logs, and I am puzzled by some of the terminology I have read. I have never had a real introduction to the gym machines and exercise methods, I have just picked up information by reading, watching others, and trying stuff out. So here are some of my questions, and I'm sure I'll think of more as I go: 1. When talking about squats, I see the terms "parallel" and "ATG" a lot. I think the latter means "ankles to glutes"? Which means, am I supposed to be squatting down all the way onto my heels? This isn't how it's pictured in the books, the model is shown what I guess is what people call parallel, meaning lower legs and torso at the same angle? So I've been aiming for that posture, never thinking that going lower is better or recommended. Am I wrong? It seems unthinkable to be able to squat practically on the floor with a 75 pound barbell on my shoulders, and actually stand up again without falling over, but is that what I should be working toward? 2. What do people mean when they talk about being "in the hole"? I can't figure this one out at all.