Is Bending the Bar in Powerlifting an Effective Technique?

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SUMMARY

In powerlifting, when performing a deadlift, the lifter is required to support the entire weight of the bar and weights, regardless of whether the bar bends. The bending of the bar does not reduce the effective weight lifted; the lifter must exert equal or greater force to overcome gravity. While there are techniques that can facilitate lifting, bending the bar is not recognized as an effective method. Understanding the physics of weightlifting is essential for optimizing performance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of gravity and force dynamics
  • Knowledge of powerlifting techniques and mechanics
  • Familiarity with deadlift execution and form
  • Awareness of barbell specifications and their impact on lifting
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the "physics of weightlifting" for deeper insights
  • Explore advanced deadlift techniques for improved performance
  • Study the biomechanics of lifting to enhance technique
  • Investigate different barbell types and their effects on lifting
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Powerlifters, strength coaches, sports scientists, and anyone interested in optimizing deadlift performance through a better understanding of lifting mechanics.

PhysicsKush
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I was wondering , in power lifting , if while doing the deadlift the bar that's holding the two masses bends , is he actually lifting up 100% of the theoretical weight or say about 70-90% of it ? Because i tought , if there's at a certain point ,a force pushing the two weights down, could that make it less heavy for a split second or more?
 
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Welcome to PF;
As long as the weights are not being supported by anything other than the lifter, then the lifter is supporting the entire weight of the bar + weights.
The force pulling the weights down is called gravity. To lift the weights at a constant speed, the lifter must provide at least equal force in the opposite direction - but to accelerate the weights (i.e. to start them moving at the beginning of the lift) the lifter needs to provide more force.
There are techniques exploiting the way the body works that can make lifts easier - but bending the bar is not one of them.

You can look up "physics of weightlifting".
 

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