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STRENGTH - Initial Approach To The Bar

In this article we look at the initial approach to the bar, the width of the stance at the start, feet position under the bar and stance at the bar.

The approach
One may think the approach would not be that big of a deal when lifting the bar off the floor or performing any specific lift but it actually is the beginning of the start. Just consider:

* Is the lifter mentally and physically prepared to lift the weight?
* Are they just physically going through the motions or are they mentally engaged?
* Have they visually, i.e. mentally lifted this in their mind in the past?
* Do they believe this weight can be lifted at this time and under these specific conditions?

It all adds up to either negatively or positively affecting the outcome of the lift.

The width of the stance at the start
The measurement of stance width is fraught with uncertainty as there is no commonly recognized point of reference. It would seem to be a simple matter of measuring between the heels of each foot, inside to inside. But it is not accepted practice so the best advice unless one is using the sumo stance in the dead-lift is to place the feet pelvic width or narrower. Some coaches even say this foot placement should be the width of the palms.

Have the athlete get into the recommended position and see how it feels. Slight adjustments may be necessary but unless the sumo is being used it's best to keep the feet closer together as this will maximize the force applied to the barbell. This is particularly true for the Olympic lifts as the reduction in the vertical component will be evident during the movement.