Deadlifting with hook grip

[Harry Munro]

Hi Rip, just a quick query about where you stand on the hook grip being used for deadlifts? Starting strength only talks about using double overhand and reverse grip in the deadlift section.

[Mark Rippetoe]

If you can stand the pain, go right ahead. It solves several problems associated with the alternate grip, but at weights over 400 it is not terribly comfortable.

[George Noble]

I actually think it feels fine at heavy weights, but only for one or two reps. At higher reps - for example with the 5s you do in the program - it will start to hurt at well under 400 lbs, in my experience at least.

[L.Stokes]

I use it almost exclusively now at heavy weights were double over won't suffice. The "pain" only really becomes noticeable at high reps, and by high reps I mean anything over 1. That being said on Monday I pulled 506 lbs hook grip (PB at 178 lbs B/W and 19 y/o) and then did 445 x 4 with a hook grip. I like it and would reccommend using it.

[kaisermetal]

for real???

i do feel hook grip is stronger than mixed grip, so that's a good thing.

i thought the reason was because it wouldn't let you develop proper forearm strength.

[XTrainer]

I hook-gripped a SLDL with 405 a couple weeks ago, and like you said, it did hurt, but it also felt very secure.

I guess my question is, is this the sort of pain that you can just shrug off? Or is it this the sort of pain that is trying to warn you, "hey, be careful, you're doing or about to do damage?"

I don't mind the sting if it lets me pull bigger weights, but I don't want to jack up my fingers/hands, either.

[MAD9692]

I started using the hook grip recently and it solved my grip problems.
With straps my 1RM is 425 - without straps I could only pull 365x2.
I just recently started using a hook grip and can now pull 405 91rm) without straps.
Its not painless- but its not that bad either.

[Mark Rippetoe]

A lot of people have used it for heavy pulls. It won't disfigure your hands permanently -- your concert piano career is safe -- it hurts like a bastard until you get used to it. And you will get used to it.

[JPC]

Taping your thumbs helps a bit with the pain and keeps you from ripping skin off them. Just don't tape over the knuckle as it needs to bend.

[bango skank]

Would a mixed hook grip be the most secure?