I would like to switch to hook grip from an alternated grip for deadlifts, but have a few concerns that I would really appreciate the doctors’ input on. I tried it yesterday on a few warm-up singles and it felt awkward as expected, but not as terrible as I was anticipating for small female hands on an Ohio Power Bar. For my working sets I did one set of 5 each @ RPE 7, 8, 9 (first week of Strength I) but could only use the hook grip for the first 2 or 3 reps before I couldn’t get a secure grip and switched back to an alternating grip. I know that it is going to take some trial and error, but here are a few of my concerns:
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I have Rheumatoid Arthritis so grip strength has always been a bit of an issue. My RA is well-managed but I cannot bend the joint closest to my nail on either thumb due to permanent deformity. From what I have read, when hooking gripping you want to keep your thumb relatively straight anyway instead of wrapping it around the bar, but is there any RA-related reason that I shouldn’t hook grip?
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Everyone has a different opinion, but how often should hook grip be utilized in training, and how should it be implemented when just starting out? I have read anything from all the time to just for heavy singles. I currently only use straps for accessory lifts, but I was thinking about starting to use them for high volume deadlift days as well. Basically, I’m just trying to figure out the best way to train to improve my grip strength for competing while also maintaining the health of my joints.
Thank you for reading and thank you for you any feedback that you have to offer.
Sam
