It is a great exercise that is gaining popularity and you will be seeing more of them in conventional fitness facilities. It can also be referred to as the hex bar. It is a great exercise because it is fairly simple involving the lower body and upper body. It has the benefits from both the barbell back squat and the straight bar deadlift. It provides less stress on the spinal column compared to a straight bar deadlift because of the position of the weight relative to the line of gravity of the exercise. There are less compressional forces on the back because the weight is held in the hands spreading the forces in and around the muscles.
Below is a link to a video of an athlete performing a stationary trap bar deadlift.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZ4csxk6ivw
Setup and Instructions
- Step into the bar
- Pull shoulders back and keep back straight
- Grip handles and lift up
- Push the floor
- Keep your knees in line with your hip and ankles
- Lower the weight with control and reset
Progression 1
Once you have phased in 3-4 weeks of stationary Trap Bar Deadlift, you can move on to your first progression, which is the walking trap bar deadlift. Below is a link to a video demonstrating a walking trap bar deadlift. Below are cues to remember:
- Start with a short distance and progress to a longer distance. For example, start with 10 yards and then move to 20 yards.
- Don’t make turns with the trap bar, put it down, turn the other way and pick it up again.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8SSQYtMpk8
If you have any questions regarding the use of a trap bar or needing variations, please feel free to contact me at the following below:
Khanh Vy
Certified Athletic Therapist
Registered Kinesiologist
Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach
BPHE, R. Kin (CAT(C)), CSCS