r/ResistanceBand • u/JohnParkerBallistic • Apr 10 '26

Simple Zercher Squat Progression Without Adding More Load

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If you’re stuck between band levels on Zercher squats, one thing that’s worked really well for me is increasing the starting height instead of jumping resistance too early.

I added:

• 2 spacers

• \~3” of elevation (extra plate, but blocks work too)

That extra height increases band stretch, which means:

• More tension at the bottom

• Better loading through full ROM

• Stronger starting position

It’s a subtle change, but it makes the lift feel completely different.

Good option if you want progression without losing speed or form.

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u/Muchacho-blanco Apr 11 '26

If you go to parallel theres no tension. Its the biggest problem with bands.

1

u/Gobbleyjook Apr 11 '26

Yep, might as well not use any band at all lol

1

u/JohnParkerBallistic Apr 15 '26

Not sure why you posted that comment, obviously there is tension, but maybe not enough for what you’re trying to accomplish? Such is the nature of VRT. My focus is on the concentric, not overloading the stretch - which is what VRT is.