03-29-08 04:22 PM - Post#426085    

I thoroughly enjoyed my Top Squat. Enabled me to renew progress when I couldn't do regular squats. I'm looking forward to using it again once my knee and hip problems are resolved.

Bill2 Integrity is what you do when you think nobody is watching.

03-29-08 04:22 PM - Post#426086    

I love mine.... use it all the time. Much more comfortable on my beat up shoulders than trying to get my arms all the way back to the regular bar. I can get a lot deeper with it than otherwise.

Come visit my log, please.

03-29-08 05:28 PM - Post#426095    

Its funny, I was in the same situation recently.

I quit doing flat bench press, shoulders are now fine. I also switched to a trap bar "Squat-Lift" and I really like it. (Plus I kill 2 birds with one stone, squats & deads). However, since not doing flat bench anymore, I also got in a real squat workout for the first time in 2 months... I like the trap bar so much now, I'll keep using and alternate workouts with it. (Squats one week, and trap bar "squat-lifts" the next).

-[[[----]]]- ~Dave

03-29-08 05:39 PM - Post#426102    

• jej Said:

Main key there.

03-29-08 08:22 PM - Post#426149    

Thanks everyone for your thoughts and experiences with the device. I know many IOLers have used it with success for some time.

I haven't seen the video, but was able to view the pics of it being used. I have no doubt that once I get accustomed to using it, I will once again be squatting 400+ like it was a sack of taters.

I'll be sure and chime in with a new thread once I get to using it.

It's a good thing I'm in this for the long haul, 'cause it just might take longer than I thought!

03-29-08 08:33 PM - Post#426152    

With all the junk that is out there with claims of being USEFUL this is one piece of equipment that is way better than any claims for it. I use it when I do my squats and now I have no shoulder pains to contend with.

You will like it and if you have at least 2 brain cells find a sweet spot for it when you are squating.

03-29-08 08:53 PM - Post#426154    

• brucedl Said:

Thanks, Bruce. I think I have a couple of BC's left. But that's just my version of it.

It's a good thing I'm in this for the long haul, 'cause it just might take longer than I thought!

03-29-08 10:57 PM - Post#426190    

Good stuff, definately. Dave's video is the best. I did a review of it in a Squat Rx video too.

http://squatrx.blogspot.com/

03-30-08 09:30 AM - Post#426242    

Thanks, Boris. I was able to view your video review and found it to be helpful.

It's a good thing I'm in this for the long haul, 'cause it just might take longer than I thought!

03-31-08 10:42 AM - Post#426595    

The Top Squat reviewed by Randy Roach

"Life is a one act play, there are no encores." - Dan Martin PREMIERE PERSONAL FITNESS

03-31-08 11:05 AM - Post#426608    

I bought it a little while ago to use when I was having problems with my shoulder. It was the perfect solution for continued squatting until I was able to get more flexibility through rotator cuff training.

It's also very good if you feel like a change of pace; costs a lot less than squatting machines.

03-31-08 11:56 AM - Post#426651    

Man I can hardly wait for summer when we set up the squat rack in my garage and I get out my top squat and start back on some serious squatting !!
Art

Art Hansen ISSA CFT http://www.bwculture.net/?Click=3157 For the USA Suspension training equipment !!

Bragging on my new Top Squat...and if you have been considering purchasing one, but have been putting it off, wait no longer!
04-16-08 08:48 PM - Post#432758    

The Top Squat came in about 3 weeks ago and it was legs day! I started with an empty bar and increased the weight gradually to adapt to the feel of it. I had no trouble whatsoever. In fact, I ended up increasing my 5X5 by 20 lbs. I thought it was 10, but forgot to figure in the 10 or so lbs. the device weighs. PM'd Laree & Dave right away with the good news.

I am able to go deeper with proper form, easier. The videos by Dave and Boris were helpful in knowing what to expect and how to properly use it.

I use it for the BB calf raise, as well, and have experimented with it (with initial success) on the front squat.

My shoulder discomfort and upper arm pain has vanished! I suspected that the low bar position of the back squat was causing this, and now I can confirm it. I am still able to achieve the low bar position with the Top Squat. My self confidence has increased and the upper body excersises like BB Press, Curls of any type and anything that concerns the front and side delts are now improving by leaps and bounds...totally pain free!

Thanks, Dave, for your insight and for finding a way to materialize a great idea.

I view this as a tool and not a crutch for being able to continue with a vital excercise... the full, deep Squat. I fully expect that my personal best (for reps) will increase far above previous goals I had set for myself this year.

For all of us aging weight lifters, the Top Squat is superb. I am even going to recommend it to my son, who is 24 yrs. old. (Prevention is 90% of good medicine).

Thanks to all of my fellow IOL'ers who gave me positive input on the device. It is your experience and good words that caused me to choose it.

Vic

It's a good thing I'm in this for the long haul, 'cause it just might take longer than I thought!

04-16-08 10:10 PM - Post#432786    

Vic,

You actually increased your 5x5 by 25. I believe the Top Squat weights 15 lbs.

It is a great tool. Everyone should have it.

04-17-08 12:04 AM - Post#432834    

It's one of the best pieces I've ever purchased !
It literally put me back into the squat game !
Art

Art Hansen ISSA CFT http://www.bwculture.net/?Click=3157 For the USA Suspension training equipment !!

04-17-08 09:04 AM - Post#432890    

I can't squat without it... so I think Dave is a genius. :-)

Come visit my log, please.

04-17-08 09:44 AM - Post#432901    

• DennisH Said:

Thanks, Dennis, that's good to know. I don't have a set of scales at home.

It's a good thing I'm in this for the long haul, 'cause it just might take longer than I thought!

04-17-08 11:35 AM - Post#432955    

Great news, Vic! Love to hear this stuff... will pass the post on to Dave, too. Hearing reports like this really makes him feel good.

04-17-08 01:01 PM - Post#433010    

Jason and I use the top squat for our squat routine. Jason doesn't need it, but I do so....it gets used and there are no complaints and no pain.

Slightly Used Top Squat
03-29-09 05:53 PM - Post#539836    

Anyone interested in a slightly used Top Squat attachment? It is being listed here: http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/spo/1097367280.html

I am also selling several other cable attachments on craigslist too. If you're interested let me know.

"Building muscles and appealing bodies requires the diligent practice of the fundamentals in nutrition and in resistance training. The why is for the curious and fascinated; it is not otherwise important. Train hard, consistently and with heart. Eat smaller meals more often throughout the day in a high protein, lower carb and medium fat formulation. No sugar or junk food or fried food." Dave Draper

Edited by Broadcast Technician on 03-29-09 05:56 PM. Reason for edit: No reason given.

Top Squat and Heavy Weight
02-14-10 01:10 PM - Post#605536    

I'm sorry if this is an old question. I did a search but couldn't find the answer.

I have been squatting for 20+ years but recently squats have really been hammering my shoulders. I am considering the top squat, but want to make sure that I can use it with 400 pound squats without it feeling unusual, unbalanced, or like the bar is going to fall of my back.

I'm sure I'm a bit paranoid here, but I just want to make sure that I can use the top squat on heavy sets.

Thanks in advance!

www.swilliamshaw.com

02-14-10 01:49 PM - Post#605542    

Its no problem. No feeling like the bar is going to fall off your back.

It does feel different than a traditional back squat. A little different if you are used to a high bar hold. Quite a bit different than a low bar hold.

Be sure to go to the store here and check out the video of Dave using the TopSquat. Notice how he moves the handles as he performs the squat. This moves the bar up and down the back a bit and feels just great.

I must admit I have never done 400# with it, though. Others have.

jej

02-14-10 06:42 PM - Post#605571    

I also have never done 400, Steve. I did 315 with the Top Squat and had no problem. Great piece of equipment.

I don't think Dave and Laree would develop and sell something unless it could handle heavier weights.

02-14-10 07:28 PM - Post#605573    

I appreciate the feedback. I'm sure they wouldn't develop anything that's not squared away...I'm simply paranoid.

www.swilliamshaw.com

02-14-10 11:05 PM - Post#605599    

I've found the Top Squat can handle all that I can put on it....no issue's there. It may take you a workout or two to find the right groove/technique when first utilizing it as it feels a bit different then a regular back squat. I've found there is no shoulder agitation and it help perfect my squatting form while using it.

Good luck,

Guy

Top Squat and Heavy Weight
02-15-10 12:09 AM - Post#605604    

I think Laree will let you try it out for a while and if you do not like it then return it for a refund.

In one of the videos for the top squat Dave does three reps with 405lbs, and that is in his early 60's age rage. Wow.

On a good day I will do squats with 315 but not much heavier. I came close to buying the Top Squat but I now train at the gym, as opposed to my home gym.

All is my opinion.

MS, MBA Wild Saddle™

Edited by Richard Sanchez on 02-15-10 12:12 AM. Reason for edit: No reason given.

Re: Top Squat and Heavy Weight
02-15-10 09:27 AM - Post#605630    

Although this linked video concerns the use of the safety squat bar, it shows that you can use a device such as the top squat for heavy rest-pause type loads:

http://www.tmuscle.com/free_online_program/s ports_body_training_muscl e_anaconda/anaconda_proto col?utm_source=weekly_dos e&utm_medium=email&am p;utm_campaign=tmuscle#i- bodybuilder-program/phase -3-8212-legs/monday

Re: Top Squat and Heavy Weight
02-15-10 10:34 AM - Post#605643    

We've gotten two emails that I remember from guys going over 500; one was 550 and the other 600, so once you get used to the feel, the weight isn't an issue. And for people who love to squat, or at least love the value of it, if the shoulders become a limiting factor, the top squat is golden.

That's why Dave invented it -- shoulder problems put a damper on his squatting. He tried the manta ray, buffalo bar and safety squat, and none did what he was looking for, which was to simply get the arms out in front.

Hey, that reminds me! Check out this photo Byron showed me (via Dale, via Terry Todd):



http://starkcenter.org/blog/?p=276&cpage =1#comment-513

Funny, both the old image, which I'm *quite* certain Dave never saw, and also the welding. Dave's first prototype looked a lot like this. :~)

And yes, we do allow returns for any reason. But we don't pay the shipping or credit for the shipping, so you'll want to be fairly sure before you order it, because it'll cost $15 or $20 each way, depending on where you live.

02-15-10 11:09 AM - Post#605655    

Thanks Laree, and everyone else....

I generally don't squat over 405 for reps, but sometimes I do high box squats with 455. I am ordering a Top Squat today and can't wait to give it a test run.

I am currently cutting for my first bodybuilding competition, and will definitely give it some Youtube promotion :)

My shoulders strain so easily now from 400 pound squats. No matter what I do I just can't stretch enough to get behind the bar comfortably anymore. I'm 42 and my body just isn't what it used to be.

www.swilliamshaw.com

02-15-10 11:56 AM - Post#605670    

I love my top squat, but cut your weight on sets down 10-20% when you start. It takes a while to adjust to the "feel" with the top squat.

in a handful of squat days, you'll adjust and can resume normal weights

My gym is my church. My sweat are my prayers. My strength is my salvation

02-15-10 12:40 PM - Post#605680    

And don't forget to let the handles move. They start in the "down" position and move up as you go down. This rolls the top squat about an inch, so you start in a high bar position and are in the low bar position when you hit bottom. It's very smooth, very safe and doesn't feel at all weird, even though it may sound odd in the reading.

You can use it with the handles strict in one position, but you'll like it better if you let them move naturally.

02-15-10 01:17 PM - Post#605700    

I just saw this. I have gone over 400 with the top squat, and I'm sure others at King Joe's have gone heavier. It doesn't feel unstable or unbalanced or anything like that, it really just feels like squatting with a thick bar on your back. The handles don't budge at all. The only thing I couldn't do with it is good mornings.

The most important test a lifter has to pass is the test of time. -Jon Cole

02-15-10 01:33 PM - Post#605707    

Not to worry. I have done 415 in singles and 300 for 10 and am now doing 335 for 6 regularly.

The Top Squat weighs 10 pounds so I add that to my total. I figure its on my back and I'm moving it, so why not count it.

The Top Squat saved me from having to give up squatting completely.

The problem is not with the weight being on the shoulders and pressing down but with being able to get the shoulders back back far enough in order to get your hands under the bar in the right position. There was just too much pain.

I don't really know what it is in the shoulders that causes the pain. The problem is with external rotation.

Laree, you said one time that if you and Dave knew then what you know now, the Top Squat may never have been invented.

Could you explain that further? Do you know exactly what cause the pain? Did Dave find success with rehab movements with a therapist?

02-15-10 03:08 PM - Post#605726    

• Big_Jim Said:

I think if we'd have known about joint mobility and how to regain good shoulder movement, he would have never needed rotator cuff surgery and would have had better moving shoulders all along. He ignored the issue, worked through the pain like everyone else did back then and most still do now, and eventually wore a hole in the ligaments.

03-14-10 11:43 AM - Post#611588    

Nick Tumminello reviews Dave's top squat:

06-11-14 07:00 PM - Post#804728    

I got Gray Cook to write up a few paragraphs on how the different squat assist devices work, in case you're wondering which one is right for whatever you're dealing with.

http://davedraper.com/blog/2014/06/11/gray- cook-on-squat-devices/