Which deadlift form do you do/prefer?

Do This: Trap Bar Deadlift, Not That: Straight Bar Deadlift
Do This, Not That
Unlike the dumbbell row/barbell row, these two lifts aren't interchangeable. If you're a competitive powerlifter, the trap bar can be used as an accessory exercise but not necessarily as a main movement.

But if you're not a competitive powerlifter and need a good change of pace from pulling with a straight bar, the trap bar deadlift is a great option.

I liken this movement to a non-competitive lifter going between the hang clean and full clean (or power clean). While not the same thing, it offers a great change of pace, yet still maintains the integrity of the movement.

The trap bar is also a great way to increase quad strength, and it takes a bit of stress off the lower back as the handles keep the center of gravity closely aligned with the hips. For strength coaches that battle with sport coaches about the safety of the deadlift in their programs, the trap bar is a great compromise.

Let's face it, chasing the Big Three (squat, bench press, deadlift) can get tiresome, and having an acceptable substitution that can be used for several months might be just what you need to keep the competitive fires burning.

Finally, the trap bar allows you to pick something heavy off the ground and there's nothing more awesome than that.

Don't be so stubborn in your vision to leave this lift out of your training because it isn't a competitive lift – expand your vision a bit without sacrificing your principles.

There are different opinions about the Trap Bar, with the majority giving it a thumbs down because it doesn't carry over well to the regular deadlift. For people that don't compete in powerlifting, the Trap Bar is a great option. You can't argue the benefits of picking up something heavy off the ground whether it it be a Trap Bar or straight bar, so who am I to say it's not good?

The biggest advantage to the Trap Bar is the handles – they keep the bar close to your center of gravity. So in theory, it will make the lift safer. The Trap Bar also uses more quad than a normal deadlift. I've heard stories of people doing high pulls with a Trap Bar but I've never figured out how that worked. It's also great for doing shrugs and drag rows, but I wouldn't buy this bar just for those two exercises.

The one drawback to most Trap Bars (or Hex Bars as they're often called) is the short sleeves. Even with the thinnest of plates these sleeves make it very hard to get appreciable weight on the bar. I was lucky enough to purchase a larger Hex Bar about 10 years ago but can't recall where I bought it. If you're stronger than the average person this may prevent you from using this bar in any meaningful capacity.

Conclusion: Great for athletes, if you can find a bar big enough to handle your strength level.

Conventional. THe others (aside from sumo) are pointless. Romanian is ok. Stiff legged will jack your back if not done properly. Great for strecthing the Hams,though.

The trap bar deadlift is my favorite.