The Secret to Heavy Squats: How Does the "Godfather of Bodybuilding" Wrap His Wraps?

When doing squats, proper support is key to making progress and building muscle mass. If you’re worried about the health of your joints during a tough leg workout, you’re not alone. Protecting the knees while squatting is a major challenge for many gym-goers.

Fortunately, Charles Glass, the legendary coach known as the “Godfather of Bodybuilding,” has shared his precise method for wrapping knee wraps. This renowned IFBB Pro League coach, who has guided icons such as Dexter Jackson, Chris Cormier, and Brandon Curry to success, pays close attention to even the smallest details. And according to him, the proper use of knee wraps can be the key change that takes your leg training to the next level and protects your joints in the long run.

Choosing the Right Material

Before you even start wrapping, it’s important to choose high-quality equipment. Glass emphasizes that athletes should look for wraps made of durable material that won’t interfere with the mechanics of movement.

“When it comes to this type of wrap, you want a good, durable material that won’t get in the way when you’re lifting. They’re designed to support your joints exactly where they need it most. This allows you to fully focus on the muscles you’re working and feel confident while lifting,” explains Glass.

Step-by-Step Guide: How Charles Glass Wraps His Knee Straps

In a recent post, Glass demonstrated in detail his personal technique, which he says is a real “game-changer” for heavy squats. The main surprise for many may be that his method avoids tightening the wrap directly over the kneecap itself.

How to do it, according to the expert?

1. Start below the knee: Place the beginning of the bandage below the knee. Glass recommends letting the first section of the bandage hang down slightly.
2. Wrap twice: Aim slightly upward and wrap the bandage firmly around your leg twice below the knee.
3. Go over the knee: Next, guide the bandage over the knee and wrap it firmly around the area above the knee twice.
4. Return down: Then guide the bandage back down (by tucking it under or securing it beneath the lower part) and fasten it.
5. Do not cover the kneecap: The golden rule is that the wrap should tightly encircle the areas below and above the knee, but leave the kneecap itself free and uncovered.

“It’s a huge difference. When you’re squatting really heavy weights, it makes a world of difference,” adds Glass.

Why is it worth listening to Glass’s advice?

When a workout lacks intensity, Glass’s first thought isn’t usually to mindlessly add more weight plates, but rather to emphasize strict form. This is absolutely crucial for building a stronger and more well-rounded lower body. Charles Glass believes that this specific method of stabilizing the knees can, in the long run, protect your joints from wear and tear and injuries, without restricting your range of motion.

So the next time you step up to the bar with the intention of beating your squat max, remember the advice of the Godfather of Bodybuilding. Properly wrapped knee wraps will give you the confidence you need and protect your knees from unnecessary risk.

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Příspěvek sdílený Charles Glass (@thecharlesglass)