The squat can be regarded as a whole-body workout to build muscle. This is due to the fact that the bar is positioned on top of the shoulders and power must travel from the legs where it is generated to the bar. The body transmits the power from the quadriceps via the calves to the floor in order to push the whole body against it and provide leverage. The power from the quadriceps then flows from the floor upwards through the upper body to the barbell in order to raise it. This means the upper body must be able to transmit this force.