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Solving a Major Deadlift Mistake
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Most deadlift problems happen before the bar ever leaves the floor. One of the biggest mistakes I see is trying to stay tight way too early in the setup, specifically the 5-Step Deadlift set up I teach. You walk up to the bar. Then you bend down to take your grip trying to keep your back perfectly flat the entire time. That creates a ton of unnecessary tension in the hamstrings and hips. Now you’re stuck. When you go to “set your back,” there’s nothing left to give. I just put out a video breaking down how to fix this using the 5-step deadlift setup. The key idea is simple: Let your back stay loose while you take your grip and bring your shins to the bar. You’ll get a more consistent back set, better balance over midfoot, and cleaner pulls off the floor. Watch the video with some shoddy camera work and appearance from Toddler K here. Watch the video here: If your deadlifts feel inconsistent or beat up your back, this will help immediately. – Sam Krapf, SSC |
Sam Krapf
Get weekly training tips, real-world coaching insights, and strength strategies that actually work — from a Starting Strength Coach who walks the walk.
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