Work

A comparison of spinal and lower extremity biomechanics during maximal and sub-maximal deadlifts among strength-trained women

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Previous studies have examined changes in biomechanical variables in response to different deadlift loads, yet, the effect of sub-maximal and maximal loads on potential deviation in lifting technique remain inadequately understood. Methods: Therefore, this study compared barbell and joint kinematics, net joint moments (NJMs), and surface electromyography (sEMG) amplitude during 70%, 90%, and 100% of three-repetition maximum (3RM) load using statistical parametric mapping. Twelve strength-trained women (age: 23.18 ± 3.46 years, height: 166.72 ± 2.90 cm, body mass: 68.18 ± 7.67 kg) lifted 72.5 ± 9.3 kg, 93.9 ± 16.6 kg, and 102.9 ± 17.6 kg s at 70%, 90%, and 100% of 3RM deadlifts, respectively. Results: The main findings revealed that the maximal load resulted in a significant increase in lower thoracic flexion angles and erector spinae sEMG amplitudes compared to the sub-maximal loads. Additionally, significantly lower hip NJMs were observed with a 70% load compared to 90% and 100% loads. Conclusion: Therefore, increasing loads beyond 90% of 3RM might not be necessary if the goal is to train hip extensor strength through deadlifting. Deadlifting loads beyond 90% of 3RM may be achieved by increasing spinal flexion. This posture may allow strength-trained women to lift beyond the strength capacity of their hip extensors during the final repetition of a 3RM deadlift.

Source: PeerJ

DOI: 10.7717/peerj.20279

Authors: Andreas H. Gundersen, Roland van den Tillaar, Hallvard Falch, Stian Larsen

Institution: Nord University

Language: English

Topic: Sports Performance and Training

Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,395