Mike, I'm just starting to tap into the physiology world and learn about anatomy and the way the body works. I learned some key things today though. First, I learned about the EMG test and how it can test how much force is being produced by a muscle. Second, I learned that muscle fibers produce the most force when they are in a position that forms the most cross-bridges (actin/myosin) possible.

With this, I've come up with a theory that each individual should have a specific form for each lift that would put their muscles in a position that allows them to form the most crossbridges and therefore producing the most force possible. I.e: squat: there has to be some form (distance between heel, distance between toes, etc) that puts the muscles in a position that will generate the most force possible during the lift. Same for deadlift and bench. 

Do you think this theory is accurate and do you have any information regarding this theory from your experiences and research? 

I'm very seriously hoping to work with a PT professor here and test out my theory with the EMG machine, possibly even using this research as part of my dissertation (if this theory/idea has any hope of working).

While actin/myosin cross-bridges play a role in optimal force relationships, you also need to take into account body levers.  Body levers play a much bigger role in weight lifted than actin/myosin cross-bridge length.  For example, you are able to lift massive amounts of weight with your calves because of the lengths and directions of the levers.  This is disregarding the fact that bouncing the weight utilizes the springiness of the achilles tendon.  Also, individuals all have different body levers, which complicates things even more.  People have different insertion points, etc.

Also, EMG testing and basing conclusions on them can be pretty complicated.  Case in point, look at this post that I got from Mel Siff:

http://www.performancemenu.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4508 

I think as you study physiology, biomechanics, stress adaptation, etc. you'll be amazed at how individualized everybody is.  I think those who are most successful in the biological sciences realize that.  Certain drugs work on some but not on others, most people's bodies can regulate cholesterol while a few can't, etc.

Edit: There is some merit to what you're saying, though it's not very cut and dry.

Thanks for the input Donald. I definitely realize and understand that everyone is different and my base idea was that each individual is different but there must be some position for each person that will produce the most force. For instance, my body will produce max force in the squat with a close stance, toes out..while your max force could be with a wide stance and toes forward.

Mike, I am a physical therapy major and just starting to learn about anatomy n physiology this semester. I'm very anxious to learn as much as I possibly can about anything and everything concerning the human body, specifically the muscular system and nutrition. It's a beautiful and amazing thing and I want to be able to push every limit possible with it.