Split Stance on Curls and Presses

[I. Kay]

This morning, I was discussing with a fellow trainer at my gym the benefits/negatives of using a slightly split stance on such things as standing Bb curls and overhead presses (as opposed to a shoulder-width, even stance, bracing glutes and abs, etc.). Does the split stance actually aid the lift? Does it actually reduce spinal compression? These are things we've heard from guys at our gym. We both have definite opinions, but I'd like to hear everyone's 2 cents on the matter.

So what do you all think?

[Phaedrus49er]

I can't speak to spinal influence, but the program I'm doing now actually uses a pronounced front-back split (with the front foot elevated) while doing a dumbbell curl-to-press. What I've noticed is that while the raw weight is lighter than it would be with a neutral stance, the effect on core stabilization is significant.

Just spitballing here, it would seem that a slight split might be a bit of a cheat since it gives you base stabilization in two planes (left/right and front/back) rather than one plane with a neutral stance (left/right).

[PowerManDL]

I do it for presses. It makes me feel more stable.

[McCarley]

Forgive my stupidity, but what do you mean by split stance?

[JoshDunn]

One foot in front of the other, compared to feet together.

The only time I'd use a split stance would be doing tricep pushdowns, seems to take out any urge to involve trunk flexion to aid in the movement.

I can't see who a split stance would reduce spinal compression, Julie might know that one.

[DKing]

No idea on the spinal compression issue but I do use it a lot with clients. For people with bad spinal stability or who are prone to cheating its a great way to make sure it doesn't happen.

Danny