Another deadlift question

[justinbass]

What is the advantage / disadvantage of using a Trap Bar for deadlifts instead of a standard straight Olympic barbell?

To me, the Trap Bar Deadlifts feel like a more natural movement that places less stress on my lower back.

Thoughts?

[Alcoholiday]

i like trap bar pulls, but i like straight bar too

advantages:
less stress on lower back
more natural
more like a squat

disadvantages:
doesn't work the grip as well as straight bar
once you learn the movement, you can really load up the weight. it becomes more like a skill instead of a lift like the deadlift. think leg and hip drive

[justinbass]

Originally Posted by Alcoholiday

becomes more like a skill instead of a lift like the deadlift. think leg and hip drive

I'm not sure what you mean by that. Can you explain this further?

[Isaac Wilkins]

The trap bar gives you a very good mechanical advantage that you don't get with a straight bar deadlift.

Once you learn how to really drive your legs and hips straight down you can pile on the weight. There's little element of pushing the hips through like a straight bar deadlift.

[justinbass]

Okay. That makes sense. Thanks guys!

[PowerManDL]

The trap bar isn't a functional exercise.

[jvernacchio]

Originally Posted by PowerManDL

The trap bar isn't a functional exercise.

DOH!

[Alcoholiday]

Originally Posted by PowerManDL

The trap bar isn't a functional exercise.

it is if you do it on an exercise ball and use weight releasers!