Is this a reasonable way to setup a DL?

[LCN]

I seem to have a hard time fully extending my back while bent over, but I think I can extend while standing and maintain the extension while bending over to grab the bar. I feel much more tension in my hamstrings this way.

Does anyone setup like this? Is it an acceptable alternative to the way you teach?

It will be a while before my next DL day so I haven't been able to try it in practice.

[Mark Rippetoe]

It is acceptable if it works.

[Andy Baker (KSC)]

I have clients who can't get good extension do this with their warm up sets with the bar in their hand...so essentially doing an RDL to get into position. Then I put my hand on their extended spine and say "See, this is what it is suppossed to feel like when you are in the right spot, so don't pull unless your back is like this ok!!!"

They generally nod and say they understand and then by the third rep they are pulling with a rounded back again. On and on we go.