Why I No Longer Squat
April 28, 2026Ever wondered why a world-class powerlifter would stop doing the king of all exercises? Mark Smelly Bell dives deep into why he has moved away from the traditional barbell back squat and what he is doing instead to maintain massive legs and improved mobility. This is an honest look at evolving your training goals as you age and prioritizing longevity over ego.
In this video, Mark explains that while he hasn’t abandoned leg training entirely, he has moved past the need for a heavy barbell across his back. He breaks down the physical toll of traditional squatting, including the upper body dysfunction and overextension that often comes with trying to jam yourself under the bar. From discussing the Smelly Math of training to the mental shift required to change your routine, this is a must-watch for anyone looking to train smarter.
Chapters
0:00 Intro and the Midlife Crisis
1:35 What I Mean by No More Squats
4:10 Why the Barbell Back Squat is Problematic
6:25 My Favorite Leg Training Alternatives
8:50 Running for Leg Development and Mobility
11:20 The Smelly Math: Have You Done Enough?
13:40 Barbell Addiction and Lifting as Therapy
15:32 Final Thoughts
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Created and produced by Mark Bell – Sling Shot Media.



