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Question about this recent video Back Extension vs Shoulder Retraction in the Deadlift - YouTube
I don't think I retract my shoulders/shoulder blades. However, I do think about pulling my shoulder blades down, tightening the muscles in my upper back to pull my shoulder blades down against the back of my ribcage. Is this wrong?
Someone taught me the right "feel" to go for by having me do cable pushdowns. It's kind of like what you described, but isometric (no movement) just a lat activation.
I would recommend not thinking about your shoulders at all in the setup for the deadlift and simply squeeze your chest up. A deadlift is wonderfully effective at pulling your your shoulders down anyway.
