Rounded back lifting/strongman training

[Gerald Boggs]

Rounded back lifting/strongman training is the subject.

Myself: 53, 5' 8', 220 Lbs. Currently doing Texas Method with 315 for 5 squat and 345 for 5 deadlift.

Background: As part of my work, I need to lift and carry heavy awkward stuff. I don't need to do this on a daily or even weekly basis, so the doing isn't often enough to constitute training in and of itself. However, the need is there and I'd like to do it without injuring myself.

Question: Should I incorporate rounded back lifting/strongman into my training and if so, how? Or should I concentrate on getting as strong as I can with the squat and deadlift?

My thoughts were to alternate weekly with Friday intensity.

Perhaps all is answered in the forthcoming PP.

[Mark Rippetoe]

Most of it is, yes. Just remember that when you have to lift with a round back, do a hard Valsalva and hold it while you're moving the load, and any rotation must happen at the floor with your feet, not in the back or hips. The stronger you are, the less careful you have to be.

[Adam Skillin]

The stronger you are, the less careful you have to be.

This should go on the list of famous Rippetoeisms