Mark Rippetoe: Deadlift Starting Angles

[BendtheBar]

Mark Rippetoe: Deadlift Starting Angles

YouTube - Mark Rippetoe: Deadlift Starting Angles

YouTube - Mark Rippetoe: Deadlift Starting Angles

[JacktheThriller]

does ripptoe outline ideal ratios or what constitutes long torso to short legs vice versa

[BendtheBar]

Originally Posted by JacktheThriller

does ripptoe outline ideal ratios or what constitutes long torso to short legs vice versa

No, but I put this together based on available info:

More On Bone Structure

Recently Dr. Michael Hales published in the Strength and Conditioning Journal defined the differences between a short and long torso, and short and long arms. By using a tape measure and the assistance of a lifting buddy, you can measure which deadlift style might be best for you.

Step 1 – Measure the length of your torso starting at the greater trochanter to the top of your head. The greater trochanter is the bony protrusion at the top of your thigh. This measurement should be taken vertically, and not at an angle.
Step 2 – Measure your arm length starting at the bony part located at the top of the shoulder, to the end of the tip of your middle finger. Make sure your arm is straight when taking this measurement.
Step 3 – Measure your height. (Don’t guess)

Torso length. Divide your torso length (in inches) by your height in inches.

Short torso – If this calculated ratio is less than 47%, you have a short torso.
Long torso – If this calculated ratio is greater than 47%, you have a long torso.

Arm length. Divide your arm length (in inches) by your height in inches.

Short arms – If this calculated ratio is less than 38%, you have short arms.
Long arms – If this calculated ratio is greater than 38%, you have long arms.

Comparing Torso And Arm Size To Determine Which Deadlift Style Is Best For You

Now that you have calculated your torso and arm size, use the following chart to determine if you are better suited for conventional or sumo deadlifts:

Short Arms and Short Torso – Either Conventional or Sumo
Short Arms and Average Torso – Sumo Deadlift
Short Arms and Long Torso – Sumo Deadlift

Average Arms and Short Torso – Conventional Deadlift
Average Arms and Average Torso – Either Conventional or Sumo
Average Arms and Long Torso – Sumo Deadlift

Long Arms and Short Torso – Conventional Deadlift
Long Arms and Average Torso – Conventional Deadlift
Long Arms and Long Torso – Either Conventional or Sumo

[JacktheThriller]

Im long arm, long torso so I guess I just need some form instruction

[BendtheBar]

Originally Posted by JacktheThriller

Im long arm, long torso so I guess I just need some form instruction

Don't we all. Can you get a video of your deadlifts from front and side?

[JacktheThriller]

I will start posting some in my log i might as well do most lifts until i confirm they are very good

[BigJosh]

Hey steve, this is off topic, but why isn't the helpful post button available here?

[BendtheBar]

Originally Posted by BigJosh

Hey steve, this is off topic, but why isn't the helpful post button available here?

It's forum specific. I will add it to this forum.

[BendtheBar]

Originally Posted by JacktheThriller

I will start posting some in my log i might as well do most lifts until i confirm they are very good

We also have a form critique thread. Sometimes on a busy day I can miss a few log posts, so let me know if and when you do post them so we can help.

[MVP]

Mark's a great coach. He has instructions on power cleans, overhead press, bench press and squats available too. I think Mark's deadlift instructional video is about as simple as you can get.