How much of a lower back curve should one have whilst lifting?

[Sazthetics]

When doing big compound exercises, such as deadlifts, squats, military presses, barbell shrugs, how much of a lumbar curve should you have? I've noticed recently if I have too much of a lower back arch whilst lifting on these heavy movements it feels slightly strange afterwards.

Out of these two images, which curve is optimal for lifting in general? A slightly straighter arched back or a significant lumbar curve?

Yes, whilst squatting down to do a deadlift, for example, it'd be impossible to maintain lumbar 2, but what about exercises like barbell shrugs?

[paulzee]

You want to keep your lower back as straight as possible on those lifts, try pushing your ass out and chest up to maintain it.

[lankywhitekid]

The second pic is ideal. you always want to maintain a tight arch in your back. On the bench press specifically the bigger the arch the better in my opinion.

[Sazthetics]

The second pic is ideal. you always want to maintain a tight arch in your back. On the bench press specifically the bigger the arch the better in my opinion.

Yes maybe on the bench, but when I de-rack the barbell for shrugs my lower back feels strange.

[chazzy1864]

#1 is your natural arch. That is all that is required. Trying to overarch under heavy load can lead to problems as well.

[Sazthetics]

#1 is your natural arch. That is all that is required. Trying to overarch under heavy load can lead to problems as well.

Thanks for this. I think i'm trying to overarch with heavy load, which is starting to develop problems for me.