Couple minor questions about deads

[Terry Monk]

Question - did I read somewhere once that it's better for you to dead with no shoes? Or did I dream that? If it's true, why?

? #2 - I haven't found any chalk around my area yet. I've been using baby powder. Is there a huge difference? Anyone used babypowder before?

Thanks guys/gals.

[dos]

Baby powder makes things silky-smooth.....not what you really want when trying to get a better grip. You might want to put it on your thighs during heavy deads to help lessen friction but what you want is MORE friction. most sporting good stores should have it (lifting chalk).

[ParanoidAndroid]

Originally Posted by gymrat

Question - did I read somewhere once that it's better for you to dead with no shoes? Or did I dream that? If it's true, why?

The problem with shoes is that a lot of them have a elevated heel(think Nike Shox) so when you're pulling, your shoes are making you lean forward, when you want to be leaning back.

I've tried barefoot before, helped a bit. But I just wear flat, low-top adidas.

[Matthew]

I think the reason people say it's better to deadlift with no shoes is because (some) shoes elevate your heels, and you don't want elevated heels while deadlifting. Also I've seen people say that they like the way their bare feet grip the floor, etc.

I think flat shoes are just as good, if not better (for sanitary reasons). Chuck Taylors seem to be the popular choice.

[Matthew]

*sigh* you're faster.

[Terry Monk]

Excellent! Dos! I was hoping I'd get a reply from you brother. THE expert! Thanks! I'm trying to get away from straps and gloves, and baby powder was the only thing I had. I'm gonna find some chalk this weekend if it's the last thing I do.

Mathew and PA - thanks for your replies too. I actually do wear Shox when I'm lifting. I've done deads with them and with them off ( my own personal gym in my basement) and didn't really notice a difference. I'll keep at it without shoes and pay more strict attention.

Thanks again everyone.

[JoshDunn]

I've used pool chalk once or twice. Grab a little cube of the stuff and rub away. Only if you don't mind blue hands.

[jrmorgan]

You can also use climbing chalk found in some sporting goods or speciality shops. I couldn't find lifting chalk at any stores in my area, but the climbing chalk (once I started looking for it) was everywhere it seemed.

I have been wearing nike free shoes for all lower body work and I find myself more stable in the lifts (deads/squats, etc).

[Mahler]

Go to your local home center or hardware store and get a container of chalk used to fill a chalk line.

or

Make friends with a teacher.

[Newlife]

You can buy high quality chalk here. Ivanko chalk is the best I have used as not all chalk is created equal.

Alan is also great to deal with. The 1 1/2 lb box will last you forever!

http://www.prowriststraps.com/weight...lk__ivanko?b=1

[karky]

with no shoes you're closer to the ground. I deadlift more with shoes than with shoes.

[mcl]

Originally Posted by karky

I deadlift more with shoes than with shoes.

Funny, I thought it would be the same

[Isaac Wilkins]

If you ever run into a place that doesn't allow chalk then a viable alternative is an Eco Ball. Hippy climbers use them because they don't mark up the rock, which is why pretty gym owners don't want you to use chalk.

http://www.backcountry.com/store/MET...l?CP=Affiliate

I use my chalk, but I know people that use these and they seem to like them.

[Terry Monk]

Originally Posted by Mahler

Go to your local home center or hardware store and get a container of chalk used to fill a chalk line.

Say, that's not a bad idea John. thanks.


Thanks to others too. I'm going to find some this weekend.

[Irishdazza]

Terry!

Go to your local bowling alley and buy a resin/rosin bag - last forever, mess free and never have grip issues again - cheap too!