Let’s kick this off with a question from Mike:

What’s your opinion on using a hex bar for your deadlifts?

Hey, brother.

I don’t use the hex bar at all. The straight bar is more difficult and allows you to move more freely and easily. From AZcentral.com:

Hex bar deadlifts require less mobility than regular deadlifts. As most hex bars have elevated handles, you don’t have to bend down as far and it’s easier to keep your back straight, so you can deadlift safely without stressing your spine, writes corrective exercise specialist Mike Robertson, owner of Indianapolis Fitness and Sports Training on his website. Regular deadlifts are perfectly safe when performed correctly, but if you’re new to training or have have an injury to your ankles, knees, hips or spine, hex bar deadlifts might be a better choice.

Very similarly to the way I view squats on the smith machine, the hex bar forces you into a movement pattern, to a very small degree. It has you surrounded and gives you less area to move about. That’s not to say it’s not the ideal alternative for some. I’ll experiment with it a bit more and report back.

Kap

Feitelberg wants to know:

What’s everyone think of hemp protein? It seems to be the new fad even Joey Defranco is pumping it up.

First, who the hell is Joey Defranco? Do you mean this dude, the jazz trumpeter?

I kid. I’m sure your Joey’s a badass.

Here’s my take on protein powders. Hemp, whey, soy, all of them. Enjoy.

Strong mind,

Kap

What are your thoughts today?