Dumbbell squats with heavy weights - position problem.

[BeaBaby]

I'm doing dumbbell squats as part of my BFL lower body workout and I'm finding the weights really heavy to hold - in terms of what my legs/glutes can take, the weight is fine and it works well with the lunges, but I find positioning the dumbbells really difficult with the squats - any tips? I tried holding them on my shoulders and it was just too heavy.

[tiffany0809]

I've struggled with the same issue. I find that holding them at my sides is most comfortable, and I bring them forward slightly when I am down in the squat to balance me out. I am using heavier and heavier weights though and I find that as they get more bulky it gets more awkward.

[WaterRat]

This is a real problem, and the solution is go to barbells. Your hands just can't hold the heavier weights, but your back/shoulder can. Here's a good site on learned to squat. Look at the video just above where it says part 3 - it shows squatting with a bar. Learn to Squat This is a great site for learning about weight lifting.

[Depalma]

Have you tried goblet squats. You are cupping it instead of gripping it with your fingers so it reduces one of the limiting factors.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLv3anoeC7w

Another great thing about goblet squats is that with the weight out in front, it forces you to sit back and keep your chest up or the weight will tip you over frontward.

[BeaBaby]

I like the idea of the goblet squats! Thanks depalma - always great with the info! That might ease the problem somewhat. I guess I'd have to start on 16kg for that, as I was using an 8kg DB in each hand for my first set before - I will try tomorrow!

Thanks for the input guys. I can't use a bar because my gym only has the smith machine. I'm going to start using it at 4 weeks to change up my routine, but I'd better stick with DB's until then.