2009

WOD: 20-rep Back Squat Max a.k.a. "The Widow Maker"

WOD:  20-rep Back Squat Max a.k.a. "The Widow Maker"
For this workout of the day, you need to rep off 20 back squats with your maximum weight.  However, take note that you have to complete the 20 reps in a single go.  You rack the bar and the set doesn't count - make sure you are executing proper back squats for each and every rep and that you're getting down to the seated position (legs at a right angle).

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="452" caption="The Widow Maker - 20 rep max squat"] [/caption]

Take your time warming up you legs, but don't overdue it as you want to make sure you have enough gas in your tank to grit through your 20 reps.  As a rule of thumb, you may want to try just 65% of your 1-rep max your first go around at this WOD.

Our warm up was an easy 1 mile run (my time was 7:02 - at least I'm consistent).

Workout:  20 reps of back squat max (I used 210lbs today based on 315lbs being my 1-rep max).  I have to say I felt pretty strong still at the end so plan to up it to 225lbs next time.

We're going to be running this workout 2 to 3 times per week for the next 6 weeks.  The theory is that by the end of 6 weeks you should be able to rep out 20 squats of your starting 1-rep max.  20 reps at 315lbs?  I have to execute it to believe it... I'll keep you posted.

Great video on the Geometry of the Back Squat:

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_i60dzS84n8]
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