Test Your Relative Strength With The Goblet Squat Challenge

The best way to safely evaluate default patterns are by testing extended rep ranges with loads that are relative to ones bodyweight. In this type of testing scenario, we can allow athletes to squat authentically, while watching the deviations from good form that happen as they get fatigued.

The ability to maintain proper technique and form under load and stress identifies a proper “default pattern” that will become a protective mechanism under any type of loading. The presence of this solidified default pattern is also correlated with movement mastery.

Now that we have defined why we are testing the goblet squat at this specific loading and rep metric, here’s the criteria for the The Relative Strength Goblet Squat Test:

• Use a dumbbell or kettlebell that weighs 50% of your current bodyweight
• Each squat must reach parallel depth to objectify range of motion
• No ugly compensations at the spine, shoulders, hips or feet allowed
• Complete as many unbroken reps as possible (without resting at the top between reps)
• *We are testing proficiency to stay tight and perform reps – NOT killing orthopedic health

As in any testing scenario, we must ensure that we properly implement the test for accuracy, but also use discretion when putting athletes through this test. As soon as technique is lost and ugly reps start being executed, the test is over. Never jeopardize an athletes health for the sake of passing a test.

Using The Goblet Squat Test To Identify Weak Links

How did you stack up on this relative strength squat test? If you hammered through 25+ reps with 50% of your bodyweight in the goblet position with pristine form, you have officially earned the right to train any barbell squat variations hard and heavy. Congratulations.

For those of you who didn’t quite make it to the 25 rep relative strength metric with proper form and depth, no worries. The next step is identifying your weak link that held you back on this test. Remember, any time we assess or test a movement pattern, it’s a chance to derive data to help us improve as resilient athletes.

Here are the most common weak links that should be prioritized in smart strength programming, including references and strategies in the links on the right to intelligently improve these functional deficits:

1. Shoulder Stability Deficit – Master Shoulder Centration and Shoulder Activation Patterns
2. Core Stability Deficit – Prioritize Loaded Carry and Isometric Plank Variations
3. Hip Stability Deficit – Prioritize Single Leg Lunge and RDL Variations
4. Hip Mobility Deficit – Enhance Hip Mobility With Controlled and Stable Spinal Positions
5. Full Body Coordination Deficit – Use Corrective Exercises For The Squat
6. Lower Body Strength Deficit – Improve Strength Using Goblet Squat Variations

Programming Smart Foundational Squat Variations

Since the squat is considered a foundational movement pattern, it needs to be trained. Using the performance and functional data that we identified in this testing scenario, choose the squat variation that fits your current body type, skill level and functional goals. With that mindset, you’ll be able to improve your strength, and start building a resilient base of function out of the squat pattern.

For our athletes that are novices in strength training, or coming off an injury, this is the exact progression we use to re-implement the squat with a step by step approach:

1. Bodyweight Squat
2. Goblet Box Squat
3. Goblet Squat
4. Barbell Front Squat
5. Barbell Box Squat
6. Barbell Back Squat

Ensure that your athletes and clients are proficient at each of these steps that build the squat pattern from the ground up before you program in a more advanced variation. A great example of this step by step squat progression in action is featured in my Foundations of FHT program that is truly one of the most comprehensive beginners programs ever written.

If you can move through all six with proficiency under loading, it’s time to work hard to get strong while maintaining your movement capacity while training the squat hard and heavy! That’s called earning the right to barbell back squat.

About The Author

Dr. John Rusin is an internationally recognized coach, physical therapist, speaker, and sports performance expert. Dr. John has coached some of the world’s most elite athletes, including multiple Gold Medalist Olympians, NFL All-Pros, MLB All-Stars, Professional Bodybuilders, World-Record Holding Powerlifters, National Level Olympic Lifters and All-World IronMan Triathletes.

Dr. Rusin is the leading pioneer in the fitness and sports performance industries in smart pain-free performance programming that achieves world class results while preventing injuries in the process. Dr. John’s methods are showcased in his 12-Week Functional Hypertrophy Training Program that combines the very best from athletic performance training, powerlifting, bodybuilding and preventative physical therapy to produce world-class results without pain and injuries.