Deadlifting Technique Question

LifterMike · 12-Jun-04, 02:04 PM

I have a question about deadlifting. Ever since I began doing deadlifts on a regular basis I've had problems with my knees getting in the way on every rep. When I keep my back arched a little with my head up my knees always get in the way as I lift it. Are my legs too long or something?? My legs look in proportion to my body but when I lift the bar hits my knees so I have to curve my back to lift the bar far enough away to clear my knees. I'm going to have to stop doing deadlifts if i can't work around this.

abarlament · 12-Jun-04, 02:07 PM

If you are doing a PL deadlift, then it is acceptable for hte bar to rub against your legs. That's the reason many PLers no longer have hair on the front of their shins and thighs.

If you aren't doing a PL deadlift (more like a Clean deadlift), then start with the bar over the balls of your feet, shoulders above the bar, arched back. That way, when the bar travels up/in, it will miss your knees.

NateDogg · 12-Jun-04, 02:28 PM

Try sumo style, it nearly eliminates the possibility of your knees getting in the way.

MikeLifts · 12-Jun-04, 09:21 PM

Like abarlament posted, if you use good technique the bar should rub your shins and up your leg. I wouldn't worry about it unless it is physically hurting you and you may want to try doing deads in the nylon style athletic pants as they tend to let the bar slide without much friction.

Plucas8916 · 12-Jun-04, 11:19 PM

Yea.. my shins used to bleed but then I put ducktape over the grooves on the bar.. now my shins turn red but I never get cut.

abarlament · 12-Jun-04, 11:47 PM

You can also put vaseline or another lubricant on your shins, that could help the hair stay in your leg.

LifterMike · 13-Jun-04, 03:59 AM

I thought I was doing something wrong when it hit my legs and I would try to pull the bar forward, but it seems like this is universal so next time i do my deadlifts ill ignore it and lift heavy with no fear.

:

**Firehawk** · 13-Jun-04, 11:14 AM

your shins used to BLEED? WTF! How hard is the bar rubbing on your legs for cryin out loud? I mean, they slide up my legs too but "THEY SLIDE UP" lol, it aint like there's friction there...wow.

Cort · 13-Jun-04, 02:44 PM

If you're using a new bar they are spiked, its like dragging a bunch of tiny knives up your legs...those things tear up my hands, I can see them hurting the shins.

**Firehawk** · 13-Jun-04, 05:54 PM

Yeah theyhurt my hands if i am picking it up raw but they dont bother my shins. I have new bars..