[BendtheBar]

Originally Posted by Squatter

Just a follow up question Steve, and to any others that care to chime in. In your opnion, does the use of straps on a deadlift make the lift any less than what it is, especially in the powerlifting community? I ask this, because once a respected member on another forum posted up a comment in a thread about deads that a deadlift is not a real deadlift if straps are used. This really bothered me, even tho I use straps due to a medical condition. BTW, I didn't know you have CTS.

I get a lot of comments on the use of my straps while deadlifting. It bothers me some, but I trust in my knowledge of my own body.

Training in the gym isn't powerlifting. Powerlifting is powerlifting. There are some movements I can't do at all without straps. I could do 250 pound one arm dumbbell rows, but I can't do them without straps. I don't care. I'm probably one arm dumbbell rowing the deadlift of the guy criticizing me.

As long as you are getting stronger, and doing what you need to do to keep your body in good health, then feel good about your accomplishments. My grip was so incredibly strong on my pulls this weekend that it shocked me a bit.