deadlift: resting between reps?

[Samuelsson]

Hi coaches,

when deadlifting becomes heavy for me I have to put down the bar between every rep, stand up, rest for like 10 seconds, set up again and do the next rep.
I have to do this because after each rep i get lightheaded and dizzy for a few seconds, almost wanting to grab hold on to something so not to fall over. Kinda like loosing my balance for a few seconds. After that it clears and i can continue.

2 questions:

1) is it ok to complete the work set resetting between each rep, or do you have to be able to complete the set without resetting in between? I hope it's ok, because my current deadlift equals my squat (a not impressive 110kg, still fixing my deadlift form). I don't have this issue when squatting.

2) Not wanting to be a pussy, but is it normal to feel like this when the weight isn't that heavy, especially compared to the squat? i can imagine on very heavy singles or sets, people may experience this, but at a measly 110kg? ... or AM i being a pussy ?


If i missed a section in the book describing this, then i'll apologise for asking and be very happy to be pointed out to the book!

Thanks!

[Mac Ward]

I generally like to see a set of 5 done without standing up or letting go of the bar. I would recommend resetting, and driving the weight back up while completing every set as a single set of 5. You have trained yourself out of 5's, and into singles. Man up and do it. Report back if you actually pass out.

[Samuelsson]

OK, got it, thanks Coach!

[ColoWayno]

At least start out making yourself do 2 reps in a row if going for 5's makes you crazy dizzy. The key is to figure out a progression that gets you to where you want to go. Like say
Week 1: 1x2 followed by 3 singles
Week 2: 2x2 followed by a single
Week 3: 3x2
Week 4: 1x3, 1x2
Week 5: 1x4, 1x2
Now go and get strong with 5's.

It will take a bit of time, but a drop in the bucket really.

[Samuelsson]

good idea, i'll try that, really want to do 5's instead of 5 singles!
thanks.

[Nick Klemetson]

I almost died on my set of 5 today. First two were fine, before the third I took about 2 breaths, before the fourth I took 5 or so breaths, and before the fifth I probably took at least 8 or so. I never let go of the bar or reset though, so it was good enough for me.

[Steve Hill]

Samuelsson - how long are you taking to return the bar to the floor?

Also, relax your neck muscles when you valsalva.

[8odin8]

I noticed I get light headed precisely when I stand up after a heavy deadlift. What actually helps me is to NOT get up during the set, and once I get through my 5 reps I simply kneel on the floor and look down for at least 15 seconds before standing back up.

[Samuelsson]

Samuelsson - how long are you taking to return the bar to the floor?

Also, relax your neck muscles when you valsalva.

Steve: I hold the bar for about one second at lockout, then lower it back on a controlled manner holding my back tight, in about a second or two, maybe three? something like that? is that good?

i'll try to relax my neck next time, sounds kinda difficult to do when tightening all the rest but i think i know what you mean; something like temporarily pinching of a vein to my head, reducing the blood and oxygen to the brain, making me feel dizzy?
haven't thought of it myself, but sounds logical... i'll give it a try, together with gradually building up the weight again. Thanks.

[Steve Hill]

You're putting the bar back down too slow. Probably most of your problem right there.