Is there any safe method to load and unload the weights

[Rama]

Mark,

Is there any safe method to pick up the weights from the ground and to load them on the the Bar for deadlifts?

I programmed my workout as per the instructions given in your book under Table 8-1.

In this I will have to change my weights for almost every set that I do.

I wanted to know if you could teach any safer methods to pick up the lose weights from the ground up and load them on to the Bar and to change them.

I am the only person in the gym doing deadlifts and squats, I do not have a training partner, so I will have to load and unload the weights by my self. I have already been doing, but I am curious to know if there is any proper form that I need to assume while doing them.

I appreciate if you could share your views.

[Mark Rippetoe]

Always be sure to use your hands. Get the plates all the way on the bar.

[simonsky]

If you're really tired, roll the plates to the bar if it's far. For squats, pick it up then use your thigh to jerk it up so it'd be easier.

Also, be sure to return the plates when you're not training in a home gym. It works your wrists/forearm and grip, and avoids Rip from kicking you out from his gym.

[ColoWayno]

Always be sure to use your hands. Get the plates all the way on the bar.

Could you teach us how to lift heavy things?

[snyderman3000]

Sometimes I borrow my 16-month-old daughter's ring stacking toy to get some practice. You can pick one up on Amazon for about $15 to work on it until you get it down just right. The trick is you want to put the biggest ring/plate on first. Good luck!

[Alexandros Brod]

roll the plates on the bar onto a small plate to get them off the ground. makes loading and unloading much easier.

[bluecheese]

Instead of putting the bar on the rack every time you change weights, take a small plate (like a 10 pounder) and roll the innermost plate on the bar on top of it. You will have enough of an angle to add more plates.

[tertius]

Always be sure to use your hands. Get the plates all the way on the bar.

I seem to recall a thing about supporting the plate from underneath with the forearm, and the other hand at like 10 o'clock, or something like that (books are all in boxes, at this point)?

I never do that. Am I doomed?

[Rama]

I meant the back angle and back position that has to be maintained while doing them.

[apparatus]

Ralph Nader just read this and came.