Research

Adherence

A structured warm-up protocol (RAMP) improves squat performance and reduces injury risk compared to generic warm-ups.

Before squatting, spend up to 20 minutes on a RAMP warm-up. Start with 2-5 minutes of light cardio that mimics squat movements (e.g., bike, rower). Then, do 10-30 reps of mobility exercises like lunges or squats with no weight. Finally, perform 1-5 reps of barbell squats, gradually increasing the weight until you reach your working set. This prepares your body specifically for the squat.

LimitedSupportsLOW confidence
Using the principle of specificity, we can develop a highly targeted warm-up for a squat session that will best prepare you for the squat. One strategy that has been adopted by many coaches and that addresses all of the key aspects of an effective warm-up is the Raise, Activate and Mobilize, and Potentiate (RAMP) protocol.
Gregory D. Myer et al. · Strength and conditioning journal · 2014

Why this rating

The text describes a protocol adopted by 'many coaches' but provides no specific study data or statistical evidence.

Source

The Back Squat

Gregory D. Myer et al. · Strength and conditioning journal · 2014

DOI 10.1519/ssc.0000000000000103

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DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10

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