Deadlifting: The need for good shoes
Deadlifting has become one of the most popular muscle-building powerlifting exercises around the world. It can be rough, and it’s important to make the most of it by using the right gear. Good training shorts and tank tops make the workout more comfortable, and special powerlifting shoes that protect you from injury.
Why it’s better not to use normal training sneakers
Normal training sneakers aren’t designed for powerlifting exercises, especially the deadlift, which handles weight without momentum––dead weight, hence the name. They’re good for high-impact exercises like running, providing comfort and protection.
But when it comes to the deadlift, the cushioning you get from the light flexible foam in the soles of popular training sneakers actually works against you. Soles like these absorb the force you generate when pushing against the floor during a pull, and limit how much weight you can lift. This causes your position to become unstable, and the last thing you want during a deadlift is to lose your balance, because that puts you at risk for severe knee and ankle injuries.
Tips to follow when choosing the best shoes for deadlifting exercises
It’s really straightforward: you want shoes with thin flat soles. Deadlifting exercises require you to be as close to the floor as possible, because it’s easier to hold your balance and keep your position steady. It also reduces the amount of effort you need to make during the lift.
The cushioning of regular gym sneakers does the exact opposite. It puts more distance between you and the floor, and the higher up you are, the higher your center of gravity. This forces you to work harder during an exercise that’s already difficult, and limits your performance.
Another thing to bear in mind when choosing the right shoes for deadlifting, is to make sure they’re slip resistant. You need good traction to prevent your feet from sliding, as this reduces the risk of injury to a bare minimum.
So there you have it. For aerobic exercises and running, by all means, use shoes with thick bouncy soles. For powerlifting exercises like the deadlift, get non-slip shoes with soles that are as flat as possible to optimize your performance. By following these tips, not only will you be protecting yourself from injury, you’ll be that much closer to becoming a champion!
