how long should it take to learn perfect squat form??

[Bajwa_99]

been awhile since I've posted here, so here goes..I just want to know, how long should it take for a person to learn how squat 100% correctly?? since I started lifting roughly a 1 year and a half ago my squats been totally messed up. I've had to constantly go back to light weights to learn how to squat properly, because every time I start getting to heavier weights (between 80-90% my 1RM) my form begins to mess up and I lean forward on my toes as I come up. I think the reason could be that I feel like I'm losing balance on the way down, so my weight shifts forward, rather then on the heels. Any way to improve??

[cyclistrob]

Are you going ATG on your squats? Back when I was learning to squat I would only go to parallel and found that I would have a lot of problems with my form. After dropping weight and going ATG it really forces the weight back and keeps you from leaning forward. If you are going ATG and still having problems, drop weight, and have someone who knows how to squat watch your form to make sure you know what you're doing. Then slowly add weight only when you feel comfortable that your form won't go to hell.

[bodyshop20]

When squatting you should perfect form before going heavy.
Bad form will eventually crack your back and pull an injury.
I try looking at a spot on the wall and keep my eyes on it on the way down and up.
This keeps the neck near correct.
2nd you should try to use the legs as much as poss (not using lower back to much)
Also i used to put a small block of wood under my heels to set the foot firmer on the floor

[tim_mcf]

Perfect? Forever. There is always more to learn. Plus, as you approach your limits, your form will by definition begin to break down. If you're too focused on perfect form, you will never stretch your limits and therefore never improve.

[westside24]

I think he just means learn what the form of the squat should look like flawlessly, before you try adding a bunch of wieght, so you can at least watch yourself and see if your are falling out of form. when you loose the form of the movement, thats when you know youre prolly too heavy on wieght. example: If I tried deadlifting 200 lbs. I couldnt even lift it once without my back curling up,theres no way I could lift that much, and once I would see my back curl, thats when I know I need to go back down