How different is the Sumo Deadlift to the Conventional?

[UnitedRampage]

I decided to add Sumo Deadlifts to my workout. I already do Conventional but have yield little results due to lower back pain and have gotten advice that Sumos are less hard on the lower back. Obviously, before I do a new exercise, I want to learn how to do it with good form. So, my questions are :
1) Do I still push through the heels like on a Conventional Dead? Are the mechanics still the same?
2) Do Sumo Deads work the hamstrings and glutes more?
3) Do Sumo Deads still work the upper back?

Main question I need answered is question number 1.
All tips and advice are appreciated.
Thanks.

[chazzy1864]

1) Overall, the mechanics are the same, but not exact. Start with a low hip position, maintain back angle as much as you can until you lockout.
2) Yes, legs and hips will be worked more.
3) yes, to some extent, but the bias is definitely shifted to the lower body.

[UnitedRampage]

1) Overall, the mechanics are the same, but not exact. Start with a low hip position, maintain back angle as much as you can until you lockout.
2) Yes, legs and hips will be worked more.
3) yes, to some extent, but the bias is definitely shifted to the lower body.

Thanks for the reply bro. Really appreciate it.

1) Low as in just above parallel, or like a half squat? I know it depends on the lifter's limbs, but basically....

3) Lower body doesn't mean lower back, I hope :3 Since that gives me the worst problems. Upper back strength shouldn't be a problem since I row anyway.

[chazzy1864]

Thanks for the reply bro. Really appreciate it.

1) Low as in just above parallel, or like a half squat? I know it depends on the lifter's limbs, but basically....

3) Lower body doesn't mean lower back, I hope :3 Since that gives me the worst problems. Upper back strength shouldn't be a problem since I row anyway.

1) It will vary on the lifter, but the lower your hip start position, the more emphasis on the lower body and less strain on the low back (lower hip will allow you to keep your torso more upright).
3) Correct. When I say lower body I mean from the waist and below.

[UnitedRampage]

1) It will vary on the lifter, but the lower your hip start position, the more emphasis on the lower body and less strain on the low back (lower hip will allow you to keep your torso more upright).
3) Correct. When I say lower body I mean from the waist and below.

Thanks again bro, you've been a great help!
Good luck to you and your lifting


P.S. LOL at your sig.

[SexyBack1]

Usually opening your legs will recruit more abductors, and cut the ROM. thats about it imo.

[Oriainarama]

sumo deadlifts work the adductors and quads more and work the lower back less i believe.

[nikoslimpe]

sumo squats works more the inner thghs and glutes...harmstings work the same at two exerciseis..

[chazzy1864]

Usually opening your legs will recruit more abductors, and cut the ROM. thats about it imo.

Do you mean adductors? (inner muscles, abductors are on the outside of the hips/legs)

[JohnRainbo]

I find that standard deads work my posterior chain more than sumo style. I feel that sumo comes off the floor slower, and can be frustrating when going for a really big lift.