Trap bar deads as a substitute for a squat?

thehamo

I was reading a few different forums and general consensus was that a trap bar deadlift is more akin to a dumbbell squat than it is a deadlift. I know in my own experience, weight doesnt transfer from trap bar to barbell, but would the tbar be a reasonable alternative for a squat? Reason I ask is my back is playing up and worried that squatting is going to make it ten times worse. I tried front squatting, major fail!

d'Oracle

No. Its not. It is bit more "Squat-like" than "deadlift-like" but it is absolutely no substitute for a squat.

Get you back, or probably more likely your hips, looked at.
Why was front squatting so bad?

Hanley

You train in Morton right?

Hanley

And no, trap bar isn't an acceptable substitute.

Bulgarian split squats could work.

You're better off resolving whatever issue is causing all the problems tho.

the drifter

a +1 for no its not

thehamo

Sound cheers lads.

@ d'oracle, I haven't got the flexibility in my shoulders or wrists to get my arms in the proper position to hold the bar on my chest. I do have big problems with my hips but I also suffered two herniated discs a few years back. I got physio etc and it was grand up until I started squatting heavy again. To be honest I think my body is in a hoop from years of playing rugby

I do Hanley yeah. Haven't been up in a while as I'm giving my self a rest with the back.

Molly

Surely you have the flexibility to do cross armed front squats?

thehamo

Molly wrote: »

Surely you have the flexibility to do cross armed front squats?

Never thought of that

Hanley

If spinal loading is truly an issue... I'd probably just avoid it.

thehamo

Hanley wrote: »

If spinal loading is truly an issue... I'd probably just avoid it.

im starting to come to the same conclusion to be honest!

daveyc21

Heavy sled drags are a good substitute. A lot of the older leinster rugby guys use them as they are so beaten up at this stage putting a bar on the back is a big no no