Coach,
This is very helpful and timely. Question for you with some background. I have started coaching our high school power lifting team. 3.5 weeks in. I am working with girls and senior guys.
One problem I am having with one girl is the rounding of the lower back on her deadlifts. The pull is strong off the floor and she has no issue locking out. However, about 3 reps into her set her lower back begins rounding, by the fifth, it is pretty bad.
She is a gymnast and is aware of the rounding, but can't seem to control it.
I believe it is both a form issue-meaning hips seem to raise too fast and she is starting the pull as she fatigues with her arms and lower back--but also a lower back strength issue.
What I can glean from the books and forums is:
1. Don't increase weight, but increase volume. So if she doesn't round on 135 for 5. Do 3 sets of 5 at 135. Add weight until she starts rounding. Then hold steady until the rounding stops.
2. Use light weight RDLs to strengthen the lower back and don't add weight to her DL work set if she rounds.
3. Remind her to squeezing her hamstrings and glutes tight before beginning the pull.
Anything else? Your input and that of the other coaches is much appreciated.
Thank you.
Mark