The Ravages of Aging and Heavy Lifting

DaveRCF

Okay maybe the title of this thread is a bit over the top but hopefully it got your attention.
I have started Stronglifts 5X5 (really enjoying the emphasis on form and linear progression) and I have also been reading Starting Strength. In the book, Rippetoe suggests that for back squats, that an overhand grip with the thumb on top of the bar is recommended because it allows the wrists and forearm to stay in a straight line. Plus, this makes it difficult for any of the weight to rest on your wrists instead of your back. It all made sense to me so I tried this during my last workout and looking in the mirror, realized that due to the arthrititis I wasn't actually able to perform this grip properly on the one hand. Surprised me and looked a bit weird I must say.

So my simple question is: As I ratchet up the weight of my squats, can I continue to "get away" with a grip with my thumb going around rather than on top of the bar or should I work hard to "get the kinks out" of my thumb so I can grip as recommended by Rippetoe?

Thanks all,

Dave

tross0924

I'd say as long as it doesn't bother you the way you're doing it then keep doing it that way. I use the thumb around the bar grip for my squats and haven't had any problems.

ouija86

You're arms are just to stabalize the bar and keep it from falling. As long as the weight is on your back it really doesn't matter what you're hands are doing.

wellbert

I was reluctant to stop using the thumb grip, but once I got over ~140lbs on the squats it started causing my wrists to ache.

chrisdavey

If you can work on shoulder mobility then I don't think the grip on the bar should be an issue. If it's working for you, it doesn't really matter what a book says even though I definitely respect Rippetoe's advice. People will always have slight variations in what they think is the perfect squat setup. And in saying that, as we are all different (lever lengths etc) there really isn't a "perfect" setup, but an optimal one for each person.

DaveRCF

Thanks guys. Yes, I am coming around to the realization that there are some variations to squat technique that people can use to "customize" for their bodies. I tried a slightly wider grip (I was overdoing it before after watching Mehdi's squat video on Stronglifts) and that has reduced some aching in my shoulder and enabled me to grip the bar with my thumb over the top with wrists/forearm parallel.

I appreciate the insightful comments you've all provided. I am sure I will be back with more questions.