Hi BBM Team,
I’ve been experiencing a recurring, unusual sensation in my lower back that intermittently affects my deadlift and squat performance — and occasionally even day-to-day tasks like picking up objects or putting socks on.
History of the Issue:
The first instance occurred around November last year while deadlifting. I can’t recall the exact BBM program I was running, but I was working through multiple sets at prescribed rep ranges when, mid-rep, I felt what I’d describe as a sudden “power loss” in my lower back. It wasn’t exactly painful, but I immediately felt unable to finish the rep — like the strength had drained from that area. Performed some air deadlifts and air squats and continued rest of the session - nil issue.
I then went on a month-long Europe trip with no training, and after returning, the issue seemed to vanish. Training was fine and if anything I was on a really good trajectory. I ran some general BBM templates and I recently started running the old school Strength 1 template for about two or so cycles with Sumo as main and conventional as the supplemental. I was on my way back to my previous strength standards before I started shift work which was super exciting.
However, two weeks ago, the same sensation returned — this time during a back-off set. My top single@8 and 5@9 set felt fine, zero issues, but during one of the 76% back-off sets, I experienced the exact same “power loss.” It also happened during the sumo deadlift a few sessions after, although I was able to push through without it recurring during the session.
Yesterday, I approached conventional deadlifts cautiously due to some anxiety about this sensation. I purposely undershot my single by ~25kg. However, as I initiated the pull, I felt that same power loss again. This time it was accompanied by tightness and mild pain. I performed some air deadlifts and squats to loosen up, and by the third set my ROM and comfort returned. I finished the session (press and split squats) with no further issue.
This doesn’t feel muscular — it feels deeper, possibly spinal, but again, I’m not experiencing constant pain or limited ROM. The issue is inconsistent and only pops up during certain hinge or bend patterns, like a momentary “jolt” of instability or power outage that resolves shortly after. I will occasionally experience it in day to day life after it happens - i.e. putting socks on, bending over to pick up laundry etc.
What could this be, in your experience?
Is it worth taking a break from strength-focused templates and moving to something like your Hypertrophy template with more variation and altered loading parameters?
Do you have any general advice on next steps, whether rehab or programming-wise?
I know the old Aussie “she’ll be right” attitude isn’t ideal here, and I want to be proactive so I don’t push myself into a real injury. Any guidance would be appreciated.
It is just kind of annoying that it is not predictable so I’m finding it really hard to map out what an appropriate entry point would be.
Thanks guys,
Lachy