Squat racks can be safe and effective for older adolescents if proper techniques and safety precautions are followed. The activities chosen should depend on students’ age and maturity levels. Suggested guidelines are:

• Grades K – 6: Not recommended for this age group.
• Grades 7 – 9: Not recommended for this age group.
• Grades 10 – 12: Students should be well supervised to ensure that proper technique is followed. For power development, low repetitions (6-10) should be used in order to maintain quality of movement.

Supervision

• On-site supervision is recommended following initial skill instruction and after all safety concerns have been emphasized.

Instructional Considerations

• When dealing with squat racks, students must be instructed in the proper lifting techniques, safety procedures, and program progressions that are reflective of the student’s weight, skill and age.
• A general strengthening program should address all major muscle groups and exercise through the complete range of motion.
• Specific strength training exercises should be learned initially with no load (resistance). Once the exercise skill has been mastered, incremental loads can be added.
• Student workouts should be with a partner.
• A buddy system must be used when lifting in a rack.

Equipment/Facilities

• All equipment should be cleaned after use.
• Weight room should be locked when unsupervised.
• Floor below rack activities should provide sufficient traction so weights do not slide or roll.
• Weights and equipment not in use should be stored on appropriate racks and in such a way that they do not present a safety hazard.
• Suitable clothing and footwear should be worn (e.g., workout clothing and runners).