I used a BB instead of DB for STS Legs today

[banslug]

I know there are quite a few of us having 'issues' with using DBs heavy enough to fatigue our legs, but our hands/forearms go first, or we simply don't have heavy-enough DBs.

So today I used my BB instead of the heavy DBs for a few moves. I used it with the squats, calf raises and deadlifts and it was SO MUCH better and I really felt that because I was able to use the proper weight (instead of a lower one due to forearm issues or just not having heavy-enough DBs), I got a much better workout! For instance, I was able to use 91# for the stiff leg deadlifts instead of only 70 because the highest pair of DBs I own are 35s. Same with squats.....I could do 70-something on the BB.

Just thought I'd share with you guys. And I hope it helps. Try it....it works just fine!

Gayle

 

[teddy16410]

Gayle~ I woke up today thinking I'd do the same thing! Cathe has always said that using DBs/BBs or alternating is all good so I thought Shoot- WHY NOT!
Thanks for being the pioneer on this & sharing results...Off to load up that BB!
Traci

I know there are quite a few of us having 'issues' with using DBs heavy enough to fatigue our legs, but our hands/forearms go first, or we simply don't have heavy-enough DBs.

So today I used my BB instead of the heavy DBs for a few moves. I used it with the squats, calf raises and deadlifts and it was SO MUCH better and I really felt that because I was able to use the proper weight (instead of a lower one due to forearm issues or just not having heavy-enough DBs), I got a much better workout! For instance, I was able to use 91# for the stiff leg deadlifts instead of only 70 because the highest pair of DBs I own are 35s. Same with squats.....I could do 70-something on the BB.

Just thought I'd share with you guys. And I hope it helps. Try it....it works just fine!

Gayle

 

[bayerngirl]

Gayle, thanks for sharing! I find it easier using my BB instead of DB for squats and dead lift. The highest DB I own is only 30#. They hurt my small hands, LOL!

 

[dragonf1y]

I have been using the BB instead of DB too, but I still cannot hold on for as much weight as I need for as long as I need. I guess I need to buy the hooks.

 

[banslug]

Dragonfly-on the forearms/wrists topic. Something we need to remember, also, is that the forearms have/are muscles as well, and they too need to be strengthened. They'll build up the more we do these heavy exercises. That's why I don't use/buy the wraps or hooks. And I'm now able to do pretty heavy deadlifts without my arms failing (I've maxed on deadlifts with 135 for a few reps when needed).

Gayle

 

[kathryn]

Dragonfly-on the forearms/wrists topic. Something we need to remember, also, is that the forearms have/are muscles as well, and they too need to be strengthened. They'll build up the more we do these heavy exercises. That's why I don't use/buy the wraps or hooks. And I'm now able to do pretty heavy deadlifts without my arms failing (I've maxed on deadlifts with 135 for a few reps when needed).

I agree with developing forearm strength, but I also think that wraps or hooks are beneficial when targeting the legs with the heaviest weights.

The forearms are very small muscle groups compared to the legs, and will reach their limit before you can fatigue the legs if you are going really heavy.

I think one can find a good balance between challenging and strengthening the forearms, and using grip assistance to fully work the legs.