But what happens if you do the lift with your feet stretched out to the sides?
Does that make it any less of an accomplishment?
Less ROM, or range of motion, means youre making the lift easier.
It makes sense, in theory.
Butdoesa sumo stance actually make the lift easier?
And if it does, is that enough to make it cheating?
Lets look up the deadlift rules
Recall that the concept ofcheatingonly makes sense in the context ofrules.
So, what are the rules?
In the major powerlifting federations, the width of your stance is up to you.
Heres theUSA Powerlifting rulebook, for example.
Strongman doesnt have a consistent set of rules, although typically sumo stance is not allowed in deadlift events.
This is up to the promoter, though.
Theres an easy way to answer that question, and the answer is a clear no.
Just look at the top powerlifters, and world record deadlifts.
Heck, looking ataveragelifters will get you the same answer.
Some pull sumo, some pull conventional.
If a sumo deadlift let you pull more weight, everybody would pull sumo.
Today, both split and squat styles are legal, but nearly everybody does squat snatches.
Thats what happens when two styles are legal but one is clearly superior.
Powerlifting simply has not experienced that with deadlift stances.
What are the pros and cons of pulling sumo?
This reduced ROM is most noticeable with shorter lifters, which includes many female competitors.
(Another common insult is that sumo is gay.)
But sumo has its downsides, as well.
In truth, lifters choice of stance tends to come down to preference and body proportions.
Another argues that it hasmore to do with the shape of your hip joint.
In any case, it varies from person to person.
After a while, consider switching.
Chances are, one of these will work better for you than the other.
(Have your eye on competing in strongman?
A solid conventional deadlift is a good investment for you.)
Maybe youre just jealous.
