Hammer strength deadlift machine

[krease]

Are there any big cons of doing dead lifts (and stiff legged dead lifts) in these? I use it just because it feels more comfortable as don't have to worry about bar scraping shins (I think my long legs and short upper body may lead to worse of this) and feel like I can go deeper in the machine, also prefer the palms in grip. I do squats with a barbell btw if this makes up for any cons? I started using the machine because I only felt comfortable using a very wide stance (sumo) in my dead lifts with a bar whereas I use around a hip width+2 inches in the machine. I keep my dead lift with as good form as I can putting emphasis in development of strength and size in my legs.

Thanks in advance, Krease

[Dominik]

Are there any big cons of doing dead lifts (and stiff legged dead lifts) in these? I use it just because it feels more comfortable as don't have to worry about bar scraping shins (I think my long legs and short upper body may lead to worse of this) and feel like I can go deeper in the machine, also prefer the palms in grip. I do squats with a barbell btw if this makes up for any cons? I started using the machine because I only felt comfortable using a very wide stance (sumo) in my dead lifts with a bar whereas I use around a hip width+2 inches in the machine. I keep my dead lift with as good form as I can putting emphasis in development of strength and size in my legs.

Thanks in advance, Krease

For deadlifts, a trap bar would be better.



I use that HS machine for shrugs. Ultimately if it feels comfortable and you can continue adding weight, go for it. I think a trap bar or a barbell would be better tools for the job.

[racingsnails]

No big cons. It's just a little less manly.

[ironwill2008]

Using the machine will shift the emphasis of the lift a little more towards your legs, and away from you lower back as compared to pulling a bar in front of your shins. The target is your choice; pick the appropriate tool for the job.

[im2manly]

no big cons. It's just a little less manly.

:-)

[TomMutaffis]

The Hammer Strength "deadlift" is a pivot lift, and is quite different from a barbell deadlift.

Not every gym has them but the Trap Bar (as Dominik suggested) would be a good alternative to barbell deadlifts if you are having problems with the form / bar scraping your shins. Another option would be Rack Pulls since they will allow you to focus on your back and not have to worry about scraping your shins or being out of position.

Of course Hammer Strength "deadlift" is better than not doing any pulling at all, so if that is all that you are comfortable with right now then I would stick with that and perhaps eventually work in other movements for variation.