Which fault in overhead squats is described as the knees caving inward?

• A. Knees caving in
• B. Loss of midline stabilization: extension (over extended spine)
• C. Weight shifting onto toes
• D. Incomplete range of motion

Answer: (A)

Knees caving inward in an overhead squat is knee valgus, where the knees move toward the midline as you descend while holding the bar overhead. This shows the knees aren’t tracking in line with the toes, often due to insufficient hip stability (weak glute medius and external rotators), and sometimes limited ankle dorsiflexion or foot stability. The knees collapse to compensate for those stability weaknesses, which can put extra stress on the knees and reduce overall technique.

This is the best description for that fault because it names exactly what’s happening at the knee. Other listed faults describe different patterns: weight shifting onto the toes points to forward lean and ankle or hip mobility issues; loss of midline stabilization with extension describes arching the lower back; incomplete range of motion describes not reaching depth due to ROM limits. To address knee valgus, focus on cues to keep knees tracking over the second toe, activate the hips, and ensure solid foot contact and ankle positioning.