Zercher Squat with Barbell Questions

[Bill Ennis]

Hi All;

I have 2 questions regarding Zercher Squats with a barbell:

1. What is the relation of a 1RM with a Zercher Squat as opposed to either a Front Squat or Back Squat? about the same, higher or lower 1RM?

2. What is the benefit of Zercher Squats? I've read they may help better with core strength.

Thanks for the help.

Bill

[Allen Yeh]

1. Dont know I've only ever toyed with zercher's ever tried to load up like crazy, I've been able to use 225 for reps without too much of an issue but never tried going above it.

2. Well if you were to believe Pavel it's good for everything http://www.strongfirst.com/blog/the-best-squat/

But in all honestly I have used it during my deload weeks, or for fun as a conditioning thing. I wouldn't replace BS or FS with the Zercher if you are into Oly or PL'ing. I've heard good things about zercher for Strongman though.

Check out this old thread about Zerchers with some good posts by DVS:

http://www.catalystathletics.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2943

[Bill Ennis]

Thanks, Allen;
I loaded the Zerchers off my Front Squat 1RM. My first set (5 reps) I loaded off my 1RM back squat, but I knew I wouldn't be able to increase the loading for the next 5 sets.
Thanks again.