Substitue for deadlifts in the novice program?

[johnjd]

Hi,

I have some injury complications with my forearms, and the grip workout of deadlifts is getting to be too much for them as my weight progresses. I'm doing the novice program now.

I'm guessing that there's nothing that quite equals the deadlift, but was hoping that there is an exercise or combination of exercises I could substitute for it. Maybe even something I could alternate with the deadlift to allow more recovery time.

Thanks a lot,
John

[Mark Rippetoe]

If the grip is a problem due to injury, and it will not get any better, use straps. I assume you've already tried a hook grip.

[Will Morris]

Forearm injury? You don't happen to have mind-numbing pain in your forearm when you do barbell curls that doesn't affect you as much when you use dumbbells do you?

[johnjd]

I don't do curls at all so I can't say. But it's an RSI injury so probably something different.

I'll try the hook grip and straps. Thanks again.