We know that heavy lifting is one of the key components of body-building exercises. But if you’re not a powerlifter, barbell deadlifts may be a waste of time and effort for you. Fitness experts indicate that only focusing on heavy pulls may hurt your gains in the end.
The Misconception
Classic powerlifting moves are somehow sacred in the world of fitness! But most of us are not aware of the fact that a conventional deadlift is not necessary for every exerciser, no matter its reputation. Traditional barbell deadlifts may cause more harm than benefit if one ends up being unnecessarily heavy-handed with them. Professional fitness experts even suggest replacing barbell deadlifts with more flexible and versatile alternatives, if powerlifting is not your sole goal.
The Alternatives
According to fitness experts Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S. and David Otey, P.P.S.C., C.S.C.S., conventional barbell deadlifts are one of the most overrated buildup exercises people have been accustomed to incorporating into almost every type of workout regime. Even though this deadlift is beneficial for hinge movements, which is an essential part of a workout, it can also limit hinge velocity which can cause injury down the road. That’s why both Samuel and Otey suggest opting for the following alternatives, which enable different hinge velocities and allow for a more natural posture and versatile movement during the exercises.
Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift
Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift is beneficial for those with hip problems. It mainly focuses on hip extension. According to Samuel, this deadlift doesn’t need you to travel to the ground like a traditional posture of deadlift exercises. But for the very same reason, it may not be the best option for many gym-goers.
Kettlebell Deadlift
For natural and safe lifting, a kettlebell is the closest similar option to a barbell. As Otey explains, the key feature of deadlift exercises is picking some weight off the ground, starting with no movement. So, a kettlebell is a lighter option that allows one to use the body in different and flexible ways during the lifting, without force-feeding a posture like a barbell.
Trap Bar Deadlift
A trap bar is much more versatile just by its handle position. It allows for anybody to do two actions at a time, i.e. lifting heavyweight and performing deadlift jumps or similar explosive movements. It’s truly a much more natural way to do a deadlift. As Otey says, this exercise involves our knees and hips more, similar to picking up the groceries!
What Dads Need to Know About Life Insurance Policies
Life insurance can play a huge role when it comes to financial planning. Whether you’re a single dad, married, or co-parenting with someone else, you should have the proper information. Here are some tips that can help you, as a dad, take the right path when deciding on life insurance.
The Application Should Be Accurate and Specific
To get life insurance, you’ll have to complete an application where you will disclose your medical history and aspects of your lifestyle. The medical history will have to include all your medical conditions and surgeries you’ve had or are planning to have.
The chances are that your insurance provider will want to know about your lifestyle. This includes if you engage in what is considered to be high-risk activities like sky-diving, participating in Ironman triathlons, and more. Keep in mind that every provider has a different definition of what activities are considered high-risk.
Your life insurance application will need to include any future travel plans and how long you will be traveling since some destinations are risky. Not every country has sufficient coverage by medical professionals, or they may have widespread diseases.
Life Insurance Is a Guaranteed Stream of Income
The point of this insurance is to replace your current income if something were to happen to you. It’s a security blanket for your dependents. The amount that you get depends on your provider and your policy.
There Are Exclusions to Your Policy
You may not be covered under your life insurance policy if you are engaging in high-risk activities or traveling to high-risk areas. Some policies also have a “contestability period” that lasts about two years, where the provider will have the power to look into your death.
When picking a policy, please take into consideration the age of your kids and their needs long-term.