Front Squat: Can't breathe when // back muscles

[synonymous]

This is a 2 part question:

I started doing front squats with kettle bells. When I upped the weight, when lowering my body I can't breathe in a full breath of air. There's no room in my lungs. Is this simply pressure being put on the trunk of my body only allowing for a smaller breath?

I noticed that when I upped the weight, I would also be hitting my lower back muscles. I never had that with standard squats, or at least not as noticeable. I had people checking my form and there doesn't seem to be a problem. Is this normal?

[chris mason]

Yes and yes. Think about where you are holding the kettlebells. As you go heavier of course your back will have to work harder to keep you upright.

[Tom Mutaffis]

This is a 2 part question:

I started doing front squats with kettle bells. When I upped the weight, when lowering my body I can't breathe in a full breath of air. There's no room in my lungs. Is this simply pressure being put on the trunk of my body only allowing for a smaller breath?

I noticed that when I upped the weight, I would also be hitting my lower back muscles. I never had that with standard squats, or at least not as noticeable. I had people checking my form and there doesn't seem to be a problem. Is this normal?

If the kettlebells are sitting on your chest then that will definitely impact your breathing, and because they are out in front of your body you will have to lean back to compensate which is likely why you are feeling the squats in your low back.

Typical front squats with a barbell will usually keep your torso more upright, so those might be a good alternative if the breathing and low back tension become an issue.

[synonymous]

Neither are an issue. It's the first time I've not been able to get a full breath during an exercise, so I thought I would check.

[Tom Mutaffis]

Neither are an issue. It's the first time I've not been able to get a full breath during an exercise, so I thought I would check.

Sounds good... If you are looking for variation you could try doing front squats with a sandbag, stone, or keg as well.

[starkcb]

also try taking a deep breath before you unrack the weight. or before you pick it up. I have noticed the same problem if I don't do this before I unrack!

[Alinshop]

That's perfectly normal.