steficohen- Sumo Deadlift vs Conventional Deadlift

Both deadlift versions are fully body lifts placing stress on back, hips, knees, and ankles primarily. Which one is the right for you? What is the purpose of the lift for each patient or athlete, and what are your strengths/weaknesses? Which one is easier? - Both variations have their pros and cons. The Sumo Deadlift uses a wider base of support, less distance for the bar to travel from floor, increases quad stress, and places less stress on the athlete’s spinal extensors (i.e. more vertical spine). It allows for reduced ankle DF range of motion for those that are stiff in the ankle joint. On the other hand, the Conventional Deadlift uses a narrower base of support, increased ankle DF range required, greater distance the bar has to travel requiring greater mechanic workload, and increases spine stress. Hip extension demands are the same secondary to femur length. A factor for both deadlift variations is mobility and stability required during the lifts and should be assessed by a professional before performing them. - FINAL THOUGHT: If you are quad dominant and/or have weak spinal extensors, the Sumo Deadlift may be your bang. If your spinal extensors are strong, the Conventional Deadlift may be your bang! - written by @dr.giardina.dpt - Reference: Escamilla RF, et al. An electromyographic analysis of sumo and conventional style deadlifts. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2002 Apr; 34(4): 682-8.