What is a squat record?

A squat record is a record of the most weight lifted while doing the exercise known as the “squat." A squat, also called "breaking parallel," is done by bending the hips and knees while holding a weight on the upper back until the hips are lower than the knees.

A squat with proper form strengthens the muscles surrounding the knees and lower back. The squat is one of three lifts in the sport of powerlifting, along with the bench press and deadlift. As of 2014, the International Powerlifting Federation raw record squat is held by Ray Williams of the United States, with a weight of 909 pounds.