Summary of "Don't start deadlifting before you've done THIS"

Key deadlifting Tips and Grip Strategies

Don't start deadlifting until you get your grip right. Grip is crucial and can significantly affect how much weight you can lift.
Signs of a failing or compromised grip:
- Back starts to flex while pulling the bar.
- Difficulty locking out the lift.
- The weight feels heavier than it should (often unnoticed until grip is fixed).

Not using chalk
- chalk improves grip by reducing moisture and slipping.
- Everyone who deadlifts seriously uses chalk (rock climbers, gymnasts, lifters).
- If your gym disallows chalk, options include liquid chalk or finding another gym.
- Recommended to chalk up during warm-ups and again before work sets.
Not using a modified grip
- Starting with a double overhand grip (palms facing you) is fine initially.
- As weights increase, double overhand grip becomes weak.
- Switch to a hook grip (thumb on bar, fingers hook over thumb) to improve grip strength.
- Alternatively, use a mixed grip (one palm facing you, one facing away) or lifting straps.
- Modified grips prevent grip failure and allow heavier lifts.
Using a compression grip instead of a tension grip
- Compression grip: bar rests high near the base of the palm (like in pressing movements), which is weak for deadlifts.
- Gravity causes the bar to slip down toward the fingers, causing instability.
- Tension grip: bar positioned closer to the fingers/knuckles, as if you are pulling on the bar.
- This grip prevents the bar from shifting and maintains control throughout the lift.

Always use chalk to maintain grip friction.
Transition from double overhand grip to hook grip, mixed grip, or straps as weights increase.
Ensure the bar sits in a tension grip position near your fingers, not a compression grip near the palm.
Proper grip technique can significantly increase the weight you can deadlift and reduce injury risk.