Dave Draper’s Musclebuilding Q&A

Does the Top Squat have the same kind of neck comfort as the Manta Ray?

I have used the Manta Ray and recognize its attributes. However, for my structure it alters the true squat movement, perching the bar too high on the back presenting bar-instability and a high center of gravity, which misplaces the load (resistance) on the thighs and lower back.

With the Top Squat, the dense polyurethane eliminates the acute pressure of the narrow bar and allows the lifter to position the bar where he finds it most advantageous and desirable.

Very comfortable… I love it.

Do the handles on the Top Squat dig or push down on to the shoulders like the Safety Squat bar?

I felt trapped in the Safety Squat Bar; that one didn’t work for me, which is why I designed mine. I was simply looking for a way to bring the hands forward, and the Top Squat does that perfectly.

Does the Top squat sit still on the upper back? Or do you have to move the handles up and down as you lower and rise while performing the squats?

The handles can remain fixed in one position, though there is great advantage in raising and lowering the handles as you squat to locate the bar in the most perfect position across the back for comfort or muscle action or balance.

The Top Squat takes very few sets and reps, plus some fun-focus to get to know and understand and exploit.

Built like a bridge to handle heavy, heavy weight. Your shoulders and neck will be relieved, your thighs most grateful.

Go… Godspeed… Dave