Total Body Power

Dear James,

Thanks for all you do. Reading your writings is always great fun and extremely informative.

I have two questions I hope you will find the time to answer. It'd be highly-appreciated.

1) Is it true that the back squat (only the back squat or other variations or other exercises, too) increase total body power despite the fact it does not directly work all of the body's muscles?

2) What is your opinion on the Farmer's Walk exercise for total body strength development?

Thanks again!

All the best,
Ted


My Answer: Well it depends on what you mean by "total body power." If you talk about nerve force, then yes, the back squat will generate the most nerve force, because people are capable of lifting the most weight on the squat (provided they practice the lift).

Now if you're talking about total body power relevant to real world situations, then the back squat's relevance pales in comparison to the front squat and the deadlift. These 2 exercises hit more muscle groups and stress them greater than the back squat. The amount of nerve force that you generate on these 2 exercises is not as great as the back squat, but they come pretty close: about 90% of the nerve force of the amount generated by the back squat.

As far as the farmer's walk, I think it's a great exercise for overall strength and conditioning. It taxes your body in multiple aspects: strength, balance, coordination and cardio.