Shoulders Back on Deadlift

[schodge]

Hello,

I've been working with a trainer on my deadlift technique (ruptured disc in lower back in the past, would prefer not to repeat). One thing he stresses is keeping my shoulders back (in relation to my body, not in relationship to the bar at the start).

The newest ed. of SS does have a section on traps stabilizing the back, but I didn't see a discussion of shoulder position during the pull (could have missed it). I understand they should be back at the beginning (as a side effect of tightening the back?), and that the ending position should leave them down and back (whereas I tend to go forward and up), but where should they be during the pull itself?

I find the weight pulls them forward until my back is near vertical and hence my arms aren't mostly orthogonal to my spine. Keeping them back during the pull is extremely difficult, and I can't imagine that you could do it with 400+ lbs on the bar.

So, where should the shoulders be during the pull?

Thanks,

Shayne

[Mark Rippetoe]

Page 106, BBT3.

[schodge]

Thanks. Missed that (obviously).