Most powerlifters use squat plugs to support their performance, which helps bracing abdominal and pelvic movements.
When you lift heavy weights, the increasing pressure on the glutes and abdomen can lead to farts and embarrassing accidents.
This tool can save you from these embarrassing situations as it creates pressure on your rectum that keeps everything intact.
What Is A Squat Plug?
A squat plug is widely used in powerlifting, heavy Olympic lifts, and deadlifts to prevent expelling gas and accidents, which is a natural body reaction when you uplift heavy weights with all energy.
This tool is designed to aid in holding the proper technique and support performance while you push the weight.
These gadgets are made from metal and silicone with tapered or teardrop shape design for easy insertion.
You can choose the comfortable one as both come with a stopper on the rear for simple takeout. It fits perfectly into the crease of your hip without falling out and provides support while you squat or lift heavier weights.
Moreover, in powerlifting, you need to practice around 59 kg to 120 kg of weight in the gym for athletic performance.
The squat plug helps stabilize the spine and pelvis, allowing the glutes to contract and keep everything intact.
Types of Squat Plugs
Lack of information and details there is confusion about squat plugs as to whether they are comfortable or not but the key point is that they come in several types that you can choose accordingly.
Multiple companies have launched this product with comfortable shapes and sizes that fit perfectly for anyone. However, there is a catch, you must know which one works and offers the best grip while lifting extreme weights.
That’s why I have listed the types of squat plugs that you can choose according to your preference:
Traditional Squat Plugs
These are the standard squat plugs made from metal or silicone for better experience and drip. It is one of the best and most used at gyms because the tapered tip gives you an easy installation.
They come in various shapes, so you can choose small or large according to your weight lifting and training needs.
Inflatable Squat Plug
Inflatable squat plugs justify their name because they can be expanded according to your rectum size for confident performance.
This one is made from silicone and is one of the most accessible insertion techniques during training or competitions.
Anal Beads Squat Plug
This one has unique shapes and designs with a ring on the end so you can pull it out without any hassle after the training.
However, the bead design doesn’t offer smooth application due to it being mostly used for other purposes.
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What Does A Squat Plug Do?
A squat plug, often humorously referred to in the fitness community, is an object purportedly used during heavy weightlifting, particularly squats, for a variety of reasons.
While the majority of these claims are anecdotal and not supported by clinical studies, they include preventing gaseous or solid emissions during intense workouts and avoiding rectal prolapse caused by high internal pressure during weightlifting.
Another speculated reason is the belief that a squat plug could enhance abdominal and gluteal strength by providing a hard surface for muscles to press against.
However, it’s essential to clarify that these assertions lack scientific backing and are largely regarded as jokes or hoaxes in the fitness world.
In reality, medical professionals only use rectal plugs in specific medical circumstances, such as incontinence and clinically-induced retrograde colonic irrigation.
For the average gymgoer, using a squat plug is unnecessary, potentially uncomfortable, and not recommended without legitimate medical advice and supervision.
Benefits of Using Squat Plugs
Using squat plugs has multiple benefits, which help and support your performance. While you push excessive weights in the gym, this device stays in place without discomfort.
Here, I have mentioned some of the advantages of squat plugs.
1. Gas and unhygienic Occurrence Leak
Most athletes use squat plugs to bypass embarrassing moments during practice sessions. Lifting excruciating weights can pressure your lower abdomen, which leads to passing gas and unhygienic occurrences.
Using this tool keeps everything intact until your workout is completed, and then you can pull out this tool in the washroom.
2. Rectal Prolapse
Numerous cases have reported that the large intestine’s lower part slips down due to heavy weights, causing pain. This medical condition is rare but might happen to you without taking precautions.
However, inserting squat plag will shut the digestive tract, known as the rectum. Without rectal muscle failure, you will be able to pull weights easily. Also, there are other related diseases that you are safe from using a squat plug, such as:
- Intestinal infection
- Chronic incontinence
- Intestinal Epithelial Lining Injury
3. Glute Strength
The squat plug does not directly affect gluteal muscles despite stimulating nerve receptors in the inner rectum when you push heavy weights.
The pressure on the lower body increases when you lift weight, which targets the glutes, quadriceps, and rectum muscles to strengthen.
But never tuck your stomach in forcefully, as it can stop the regular activity in your abdomen and pelvic area. It is better to loosen the abdomen while you are lifting excessive weights.
Potential Risks of Squat Plug
There are hidden drawbacks and risks that may occur by using a squat plug. But it only depends on how you use it, and you might end up at the hospital.
To avoid these circumstances, I have listed some of the eye-opening and logical facts about squat plugs that you must know:
Rectrum Rash
By forcing or without appropriate techniques, inserting the squat plug might cause you rectum rashes. The proper method is required for using squat plugs, or it may lead to unfortunate accidents.
According to experts and athletes, rubbing Vaseline or lube for the first time makes it easy to wear.
However, multiple squat plugs are available, so you must choose the correct one to prevent unfortunate incidents.
Illegal in Some States
Wearing a squat plug might help you stay confident while lifting weights but may disqualify you from the competition. Most states allowed this tool for the powerlifter’s safety and performance.
Yet, it is prohibited in some states, so avoid using or eating it before a competition and exercise for a firm abdomen.
Moreover, the reason for banning the squat plug is unknown, but I think it might happen because this tool is mainly used outside the gym.
Sore and Pain
Buying flared plugs in small sizes is better if you are new to this gadget. The rectum has strong muscles, which makes insertion more accessible. Still, our body needs time to get used to it.
Also, the glute muscles are clenched tightly, which can cause pelvic injuries while squatting.
Furthermore, there are reports that most athletes use squat plugs without a doctor’s or trainer’s advice, resulting in sore and painful sensations.
That’s why you must consult and practice with a proper application technique to avoid such incidents.
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Are Squat Plugs Real?
Yes, it’s real. According to various online stories and trusted sources, it serves a variety of purposes, from preventing gas emissions during heavy squat sets to supposedly improving athletic performance.
However, it’s important to note that these reasons are mostly anecdotal and lack clinical evidence.
There are some legitimate medical cases where similar devices are used, particularly for incontinence and clinical rehabilitation.
Wrap Up
So I hope it’s now clear for you. Basically, Squat plugs serve a practical purpose for athletes, helping prevent gaseous or solid emissions during strenuous workouts, particularly in powerlifting.
They also offer support for the lower body and may assist in avoiding certain medical conditions.
However, always consult a professional before incorporating such tools into your routine, and remember, most mentions of squat plugs are meant in jest rather than as serious exercise advice.
