Relationship Between Gastrocnemius Muscle Length and Overhead Squat Movement Compensations Among Active-Duty Firefighters

Abstract

Restricted gastrocnemius length may impair movement efficiency during functional movements. However, this is yet to be examined among tactical athletes. This study examined the relationship between gastrocnemius muscle length and movement compensations during a two-leg overhead squat among career firefighters. Bilateral ankle dorsiflexion passive range of motion data were collected from 50 firefighters, and movement compensations observed during a two-leg overhead squat were recorded. Firefighters with reduced average ankle dorsiflexion passive range of motion were more likely to demonstrate movement compensations during the overhead squat. Clinicians should utilize interventions that lengthen gastrocnemius musculature to improve the squat movement efficiency of firefighters.