Squats are often considered one of the most basic and standard exercises when it comes to a typical leg day routine. However, there is no denying that squats are also one of the most dangerous movements that a bodybuilder does in his training if proper form and care is not ensured. The adrenaline that a person gets by lifting heavy on compound movements like squats is what pushes us to break our PRs in every session. However, as tempting as it might sound, there have been frequent incidents in the recent past that portray the consequences of attempting heavy squats. 

Agreeing with how dangerous the movement can be for some lifters, 4X Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler recently wrote in his daily newsletter ‘Jay Mail’ about the correct way to approach a leg workout. He also gave his two cents on how squats can lead to severe injuries in some cases and continued by providing a logical explanation as to how one can avoid it.

Jay Cutler’s views on squats

Most lifters have a love-hate relationship with compound movements like squats, bench, and deadlifts. While these movements indeed make one feel like an anime character, the accompanied discomfort in the knees and lower back is what affects most people after a squat session. Educating the audience about this, Cutler revealed that “if you don’t have: Healthy joints, Good hip mobility, Zero lower back pain” squats are not the most optimum movement for you.

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Cutler wrote, “Everybody thinks that squats are the only way to build big quads – I disagree.” After continuing by listing the points that one shall work on before switching to squats, Cutler pointed out, “You may need to fix these issues first, before squatting heavy otherwise you will increase your risk of injury, and end up going backwards.”

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However, Cutler made it clear in the end that he had nothing to take away from the movement. Many great names in the bodybuilding realm like Tom Platz, who is regarded as the ‘Quadfather’ made massive gains using squats. Cutler’s only point was to ensure safety and longevity as well. 

Cutler offers alternatives for squats

‘The Comeback Kid’ used to train with utmost safety and precaution himself. In order to optimize his growth, Cutler ensured to provide enough stimulus to his muscles to grow, but did not overwhelm his body with junk volume or super heavy weights. Advising others to be careful as well, Cutler stated, “Squats are a super great builder for the quads, let’s not get this wrong.” 

However, as an alternate to squats, Cutler disclosed, “If you find squatting is an issue for any of those reasons, fixed position machines like the leg press (with full range of motion) can give you enough scope to build a ton of muscle until you can squat again. What are your views on Cutler’s take on squats? Let us know in the comments.

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