Comparative Electromyographic Analysis of Barbell Positions in the Back Squat

This study aimed to quantitatively analyze the physiological differences between the high-bar back squat and the low-bar back squat by comparing electromyographic activity in key lower extremity and trunk muscles according to barbell position during the exercise. To this end, surface electromyography (EMG) was used to compare average muscle activity during the first and second periods of each exercise in experienced weight trainers. The results showed that the left biceps femoris exhibited significantly higher EMG activity during the HBBS, suggesting that the high-bar squat may be more effective in activating the hamstrings. Furthermore, the right erector spinae showed significantly higher muscle activity during the second period of the HBBS, suggesting a relationship with the higher upright posture characteristic of the high-bar back squat. In addition, while differences in muscle activation between squat types tended to approach significance for some muscles, statistically significant differences were not observed for most muscles. This suggests that barbell positioning during squats may have limited effects on specific muscles, and that differences in individual muscle activation can be strategically utilized depending on training objectives.