Friction isn't a topic you hear about often in powerlifting. Usually, it's a good thing: friction keeps your feet locked in when you're pushing them out for a squat or driving through them for a bench press; friction from the knurling of the bar keeps it on your back during a squat and firmly in your hands during a deadlift. Friction can be incredibly helpful for a lifter trying to stay tight and in

Friction isn't a topic you hear about often in powerlifting. Usually, it's a good thing: friction keeps your feet locked in when you're pushing them out for a squat or driving through them for a bench press; friction from the knurling of the bar keeps it on your back during a squat and firmly in your hands during a deadlift. Friction can be incredibly helpful for a lifter trying to stay tight and in proper position.

But friction can be a problem, too. This is why you see baby powder in a powerlifting meet — lifters use it to reduce friction between the bar and their legs during a deadlift. The more easily the bar can slide up your quads, the more likely you are to lock out the weight and complete the lift. And if you're going for a PR in a meet, every bit of help matters.

In this video, Steve Goggins discusses the concept of reducing unwanted friction in the deadlift and explains a method he uses to ensure he can lock out his deadlift without friction slowing him down.

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