Spanish Squats
for Patella Tendinopathy
A Spanish Squat is a common exercise used in the rehabilitation and management of patella tendinopathy, whether an acute presentation or longer term issue that requires in season management.
There is evidence that performing an isometric exercise (such as a Spanish squat) immediately prior to activity can reduce pain and decrease muscle inhibition, with the potential for athletes to improve the quality of rehabilitation drills and sporting activities.
Patella tendinopathy is a common complaint for young basketballers, particulary though who have have a high training and playing load (number and intensity of on court sessions per week) whilst going through peak growth rate.
Elite players can continue to experience symptoms related to patella tendinopathy, which is often load sensitive with potential to flare up when returning from an off season or post an injury lay off. Spanish Squats are an effective exercise for in season management, often in conjunction with a specific gym program targeting slow heavy lower limb strength exercises such as knee extension, leg press, or squat variations.
Why a Spanish Squat?
They’re convenient! Using a Spanish squat belt, this is an easy exercise to set up and perform at home, at the courts, or at the gym.
Recommended Reps/ holds: 3-5 x 45 sec hold.
For best results, perform as part of your warm up either at the gym or at the court.
Zone 34’s custom-made Spanish Squat Straps are now available to buy via their online store or at the clinic for only $16.50 (incl GST). Wrap the strap around the base of a hoop, a court side seat, squat rack, or sweet talk a team mate into being the anchor. Dave has spent plenty of time performing his own spanish squat as an anchor for basketball players!
Before you jump in…
A Spanish Squat is just one part of the rehabilitation plan for people experiencing patella tendon pain. If you are experiencing patella tendon related symptoms and would like help developing a load management and rehabilitation plan email david@basketball.physio or click Book Now to make an appointment.
