Deadlift bars for accessory movements

[Perry Tate]

I've signed up for my first powerlifting meet on July 20th. The only federation that holds meets close to where I live is the SPF, so that's the federation I'm competing in. The SPF uses a deadlift bar, and just today I found my gym bought a Rogue deadlift bar, so I have the option to train on one now leading up to the meet. I thought it would definitely be a good idea to use it for my competition deadlift, but would it also be beneficial to use it for my supplemental deadlift variations like deficit dl, pause dl, block pulls, etc.? Or would I benefit more by sticking to a stiff bar for the non-competition variations? Also, since I will likely continue to compete in the SPF, does it make sense to use the deadlift bar year round, or should I only use it close to a meet?
Thanks!
-Perry

[Jordan Feigenbaum]

Perry,

Congrats on signing up for your first meet!

I would use the DL bar on all pulls leading up to the meet provided you're actually training for a meet (e.g. you've signed up, have a date, etc.). Usually, this works out to be 10-12 weeks prior to the meet.

-Jordan

[Perry Tate]

Thanks, Jordan! That's what I'll do. As a side note, I wanted to let you know after you coached me on the OHP at the Chicago seminar last month and taught me to use the hip bounce in the movement, I added about 10 pounds to my estimated 1rm in just two weeks. Hit a single with 160 @ RPE 8 two weeks after the seminar and 165 @ 8 the week after that. You told me to tag you when I hit 185, and since the day I hit 165 @ 8 was the last day I would be doing OHP during the 12 week strength template, I decided to go for the 185, and I just narrowly missed it. Hopefully I can hit it during it sometime during my next training block after my meet is over, and I'll tag you on IG whenever I do. Thanks so much for your help!

[Jordan Feigenbaum]

Dude, that's so cool! Smoke 185 already would you?!? Looking forward to the tag.