The overhead squat exercise is used within strength and conditioning programs and proponents of the exercise claim that it is effective for developing a number of areas, including ‘core stability’, ‘functional strength’, ‘shoulder flexibility’ and ‘balance’. It is beyond the scope of this article to define these areas, therefore, it will not be possible to either support or debate these claims. The intention is to consider some key coaching areas, to explore the correct execution of the exercises and to consider an aspect of the exercise that is rarely discussed and which is potentially the most significant benefits of the exercise – the effect on upper back strengthening and shoulder function.