Sub dumbbells for Slow & Heavy squats?

[Flex]

Hi Cathe,

I have a question regarding the legs portion of the S&H series. I need quite a bit of weight to fatigue me on the squats. I was using 40lbs. of plates on each end of the barbell which proved far too heavy to get over my head without a squat rack.

Can I sub dumbbells for the barbell on this exercise? How should I hold them - on my shoulders or down by my sides? Does it matter where they are positioned to get the maximum benefit?

Thanks,
Kate

 

[Cathe Friedrich]

Hi Kate! Yes, it is difficult to challenge the legs with heavy weight safely without a spotter or spotting equipment. Dumbbells are fine to substitute with but again holding heavy dumbells comfortably becomes an issue. Ideally, (when the weights are lighter) up at shoulder height is where I prefer because then the weights help counterbalance the nature of the squat position plus you have the weight centered directly over your legs. However, when we get into very heavy weights, it may be more comfortable and doable to hold them down at your sides. Good Luck!