The effect of trunk and shank position on the hip-to-knee moment ratio in a bilateral squat

The effect of knee position on joint moments during squats has been studied; however, the effect of trunk angle has been less well investigated. This study evaluated the effect of both trunk and knee sagittal plane position on the distribution of moments between the hip and knee extensors during the bilateral squat. Observational study. Biomechanics laboratory. One hundred individuals performed bilateral squats. Motion and force data were collected using motion capture and force plates. Trunk and shank angles and hip and knee moments were calculated. A linear regression was used to associate the ratio between the hip and knee moments (hip-to-knee moment ratio) with the sagittal plane trunk and shank angles, while accounting for six squat depths (between 60° and 110° of knee flexion) and side. Trunk angle and shank angle each contributed to the hip-to-knee moment ratio (P