Hey Docs,
I’m running the Bridge 3.0 after doing SSLP, first time ever doing Paused Deadlifts. After the second or third set I’m starting to experience increasing pain and tightness in the low back after my sets. During my sets the RPE feels appropriate, but the pain sets in during my rest periods no matter if I rest standing up and walking, sitting, etc. After the last set for the day the pain will be pretty intense, usually have to sit and rest before I can even walk back out to the car. After my workout the pain will go away pretty much completely after relaxing on the couch for 15-20 minutes. I’ll have some DOMS the next day, but nothing I’m not used to and feel recovered in time for the next day of training.
My competition deadlift e1RM is 440 lbs, and I’m using 215-235 lbs on the paused variation. I used to get a little bit of the same pain/tightness on my heavy deadlift sets before I added a belt and straps. Now it’s only the paused sets that cause it, even with belt and straps on those as well.
Am I just using too much weight even though the sets themselves don’t feel overly intense?