Deadlift: what grip do you use?

[Forge]

I've always used an overhand grip instead of the popular mixed grip when deadlifting. Whenever I use a mixed grip the lift feels out of balance for me, like one side is pulling more than the other, although I do think my grip strength is better with the mixed grip.

Is there any physical reason to use one over the other, or is it just a matter of preference?

 

[d3track]

i use straps at 405 and up, otherwise and under/over grip, just can hold more weight with it

 

[strongsmartsexy]

I learned with over under and still use that grip. I've tried alternating grips, but it just doesn't work for me. Personally I don't use straps. I figure if I can't pull the weight and hand onto it, then it's time to do grip strength excersizes before moving on up.

 

[needsize]

the bar will roll on a regular grip, so once you get used to a mixed one you will be able to pull much heavier. I used to struggle with it too, but my grip has come so far I can bang out 5 reps on 550lbs, then hold it at lockout for 30 seconds, with my back giving out before my hands, without straps. With a regular grip I wouldnt have a prayer of doing that

 

[Debaser]

I'd like to add that if you use a mixed grip, be sure to switch your hands around either each set or each training session, that's some powerful rotational torque that can cause all sorts of problems over time.

 

[strongsmartsexy]

I'd like to add that if you use a mixed grip, be sure to switch your hands around either each set or each training session, that's some powerful rotational torque that can cause all sorts of problems over time.

Hmmmmm, maybe that explains the larger left trap!

 

[d3track]

I'd like to add that if you use a mixed grip, be sure to switch your hands around either each set or each training session, that's some powerful rotational torque that can cause all sorts of problems over time.

good point

 

[Forge]

I'd like to add that if you use a mixed grip, be sure to switch your hands around either each set or each training session, that's some powerful rotational torque that can cause all sorts of problems over time.

Yep, thats what I feel when I lift with a mixed grip. If I just stay with the dual overhand grip, shouldn't my grip strength increase along with my overall strength? Wouldn't this make the mixed grip unnecessary?

 

[needsize]

I'd like to add that if you use a mixed grip, be sure to switch your hands around either each set or each training session, that's some powerful rotational torque that can cause all sorts of problems over time.

I wonder how much that is an individual thing, as I have been deadlifting very heavy for a long time, and never change my hands around, and havent had any problems or unsymmetrical growth?

 

[Nonerz]

I think it's a personal preference...not that it makes the mixed grip "unnecessary."

I'm thinking you would increase your overall strength by lifting more weight and not limiting yourself to a strict overhand grip all the time. Do the OH grip until your grip fails, then go to a mixed grip...that way you can continue and still be working your grip at the same time.

But hey, if your grip isn't stopping you from lifting maximal weights then keep at it!