During the Overhead Squat assessment, which view is best for observing an asymmetrical weight shift?

To identify an asymmetrical weight shift during the Overhead Squat assessment, observing the posterior view is particularly effective. This perspective allows the evaluator to see how the weight is distributed across the feet and whether one side of the body is loading differently than the other. When examining from the back, if there's a pronounced lean or shift to one side, it can indicate imbalances in strength, flexibility, or motor control that could contribute to compensatory movement patterns.

In contrast, the anterior view focuses on the front of the body, which does not provide as clear a picture of the lower body mechanics and weight distribution during the squat. The lateral view primarily highlights the alignment and movement patterns from the side but may not effectively reveal lateral shifts. The frontal view, while useful for assessing symmetry in shoulder leveling and knee alignment, does not provide the depth of insight needed to see weight distribution differences that might be clearer from the posterior aspect. Therefore, the posterior view is the optimal angle for detecting asymmetrical weight shifts during this assessment.