Which of the following is NOT a step in How to Squat?

• A. Start with the feet about shoulder width apart and slightly toed out.
• B. Keep your head up, looking slightly above parallel.
• C. Do not look down at all; ground is in the peripheral vision only.
• D. Keep the torso rounded and slouched.

Answer: (D)

In a proper squat you aim to keep a tall, neutral spine and a braced core so the hips and knees can move efficiently and safely. A torso that stays rounded and slouched goes against that setup. When the back rounds, the spine loses its braced position, which can lead to less control through the descent and ascent, increased strain on the lower back, and poorer knee and hip alignment. The other cues—setting the feet at a comfortable width with toes slightly out, keeping the head and gaze forward or slightly up to support a neutral cervical spine, and using eye position that avoids excessive neck flexion while maintaining upright posture—align with maintaining that strong, upright torso. So keeping the torso rounded and slouched is not part of proper squat form.