Does the deadlift increase one's waist size?

[Swole_2112]

This is something that I've heard before, but never knew if it was just myth or fact.

 

[Quadsweeps Sister]

I believe it to be true just from my own experience over the years. Also, most higher level bodybuilders will stop DL'ing about 10wks out to allow for a more narrow waist (and avoid injury while lean).

My waist width has dropped dramatically since I eliminated DL & SQ from my routine after BB retirement.

 

[Nytol2]

Yes, it must, as you are working the lower back, and core muscles so as they adapt they will grow like any other muscle.

I did not deadlift for over a year due to a knee injury, and since I have been back deadlifting I have put an inch on my waist, which at first I was horrified about, but my abs are just as good, if not better than they were, so my BF has not gone up, it is just a number on a tape.

If however you are a bodybuilder, then it is some thing to take into account, but for a powerlifter I should not worry.

 

[Quadsweeps Sister]

Yes, it must, as you are working the lower back, and core muscles so as they adapt they will grow like any other muscle.

I did not deadlift for over a year due to a knee injury, and since I have been back deadlifting I have put an inch on my waist, which at first I was horrified about, but my abs are just as good, if not better than they were, so my BF has not gone up, it is just a number on a tape.

If however you are a bodybuilder, then it is some thing to take into account, but for a powerlifter I should not worry.

Very true. When I was PL'ing my core was much stronger. I definately miss that but am hopeful that by incorporating in kettle bells and some other things - the strength will (somewhat) return to the core area.

 

[silver_shadow]

Yes, it must, as you are working the lower back, and core muscles so as they adapt they will grow like any other muscle.

I did not deadlift for over a year due to a knee injury, and since I have been back deadlifting I have put an inch on my waist, which at first I was horrified about, but my abs are just as good, if not better than they were, so my BF has not gone up, it is just a number on a tape.

If however you are a bodybuilder, then it is some thing to take into account, but for a powerlifter I should not worry.

in fact, the bigger the waist, the better for a PL since an increased cross-sectional area reduces the pressure falling through the lower back (P=F/A). which explains why successful weightlifters have that barrel-like appearance even with lower BF.

 

[Chambewy20]

in fact, the bigger the waist, the better for a PL since an increased cross-sectional area reduces the pressure falling through the lower back (P=F/A). which explains why successful weightlifters have that barrel-like appearance even with lower BF.

That's dependant upon the lift. Big waists don't have much to do with good squatters, one of the best squatters in the world I've seen doesn't have a big waist, I do beleive big belly's help big benchers but they really impair fellas when they deadlift. Big guys can't wear deadlift suits, have to spin their belts around so the buckle is in the back just to get to the bar or don't wear them at all.

I also don't see how a wide waist comes into play in the force equation, if that's what your referring to.

 

[Nytol2]

in fact, the bigger the waist, the better for a PL since an increased cross-sectional area reduces the pressure falling through the lower back (P=F/A). which explains why successful weightlifters have that barrel-like appearance even with lower BF.

I was speaking to one of Andy Boltons lifters last week, and he says he has never lifted better since he got a big fat gut, he is much more stable in squat and deadlift. He is a very good lifter, still only a junior, at 22yrs old.

I myself like having a small waist, so I shall not be eating non stop just to lift more, but it was an interesting thing to hear.

They are all trying to be like Andy, lol.

 

[silver_shadow]

That's dependant upon the lift. Big waists don't have much to do with good squatters, one of the best squatters in the world I've seen doesn't have a big waist, I do beleive big belly's help big benchers but they really impair fellas when they deadlift. Big guys can't wear deadlift suits, have to spin their belts around so the buckle is in the back just to get to the bar or don't wear them at all.

I also don't see how a wide waist comes into play in the force equation, if that's what your referring to.

i didn't say you'll be able to exert more force with a big gut. actually, i was refering to squatting in particular. the smallest gut BBs will struggle with larger weights on their shoulders because of the greater force per unit area around their lower torso. the guy you talked about will be one strong fucker... but for the rest (not so genetically gifted), i believe a SLIGHTLY bigger gut will be beneficial to an extent. yes, granted the bigger gut gets in the way of DLs.

 

[markshark]

Very true. When I was PL'ing my core was much stronger. I definately miss that but am hopeful that by incorporating in kettle bells and some other things - the strength will (somewhat) return to the core area.

hey quadsweep, not to highjack the thread, but ive been readin up on mike mahler and his kettlebell workouts....how do they work for u?