Squat Assessment

Movement Screen

Uncoached bodyweight squat to observe habitual movement patterns.

Purpose

Screen for movement compensations during a bodyweight squat.

Execution

1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart
2. Perform a bodyweight squat without coaching
3. Observe from frontal, lateral, and posterior views
4. Note knee alignment, trunk angle, and foot control
5. Repeat 5-10 reps

Key Observations

• Knee alignment over feet
• Torso angle and lumbar control
• Heel contact and foot stability
• Weight shift or asymmetry

Views

• frontal
• lateral
• posterior

Protocol

1. Observe from: frontal, lateral, posterior.
2. Standardize start position and instructions.
3. Perform 2-3 trials per side when applicable.
4. Record key observations and any positive indicators.
5. Compare left vs right when applicable.

Reference

Cook G, Burton L, Hoogenboom BJ, Voight M. Functional movement screening: the use of fundamental movements as an assessment of function - part 1. Int J Sports Phys Ther. 2014;9(3):396-409. PMID: 24944860.