What key aspect must a squat fulfill to be considered valid?

For a squat to be deemed valid in a powerlifting competition, it is essential that the lifter reaches a minimum depth where the hip crease is below the knee. This standard ensures that the squat is executed to a sufficient depth, demonstrating proper technique and the ability to handle the weight effectively. In competition, judges evaluate this depth as a crucial criterion, as it ensures that the lifter is performing the squat movement in a way that adheres to the rules set by the governing body.

Achieving this depth not only maintains fairness in the competition but also plays a significant role in the safety and efficiency of the lift. Squats performed above this minimum depth are considered incomplete and would result in a failure of the lift regardless of how well the lifter executes the remaining aspects of the movement.

Other factors, such as maintaining a straight back or completing the lift within a specific time, are important for technique and performance but do not specifically pertain to the validity of the squat itself as defined by the rules. Additionally, the presence of a spotter is not a requirement for the squat to be valid in the context of competitive powerlifting, as the focus is on the lifter's ability to execute the lift independently while adhering to specified depth and form standards.