Effects of footwear on sagittal plane kinematics and centre of pressure excursion during the barbell back squat

Abstract

Footwear has been proposed to alter squat performance whereby flat soles may reduce foot-floor proprioception and raised heels may decrease joint range of motion. This study aimed to investigate the effects of footwear on centre of pressure excursion (CPE) and sagittal plane kinematics during the back squat. Seven males performed squats during five different footwear conditions (barefoot, weightlifting shoe, running shoe, minimal shoe, flat-soled shoe) while sagittal plane kinematics and CPE were recorded. Results showed no significant difference in CPE between any footwear conditions. Peak knee flexion was significantly greater for running shoes and weightlifting shoes compared to barefoot. Peak shank angle was significantly greater when wearing weightlifting shoes compared to minimal footwear. This suggests footwear which increases heel height may increase peak joint angles to allow for a deeper squat.