Why the Overhead Squat Assessment Matters

The overhead squat assessment might look pretty basic — just a squat with your arms overhead — but it’s actually one of the best ways to get a read on how your body moves. It’s something a lot of personal trainers and physical therapists use because it gives so much info in such a short amount of time.

Even though it’s just a bodyweight move, it’s a full-body check-in. When you do an overhead squat, your trainer is watching everything from your ankles to your shoulders. And the way your body moves — or compensates — during that squat can reveal things like mobility issues, muscle imbalances, or areas that might need a little extra attention.

That’s why the overhead squat assessment is such a useful tool. It’s not about judging your squat form — it’s about figuring out where your body needs a little support so you can train smarter. Once those movement patterns are identified, a trainer can build a plan that actually fits you: stuff like mobility work, strengthening weak spots, and avoiding injuries before they start.

It’s also a great way to kick off a new program. Whether you’re just getting started, getting back into it, or training hard already, checking how your body moves is always a smart first step. And honestly, it doesn’t take long — maybe a couple minutes — but what you learn from it can totally change the way you approach your workouts.

If you’re feeling stuck, hitting plateaus, or just want to make sure you’re moving right, getting an overhead squat assessment might be one of the best things you can do. It gives you a clearer picture of what your body needs and sets you up to train with purpose instead of just guessing.