Grip holding me back

Hi Everyone, just wrote like 6 paragraphs in the "introduce yourself" section if you need any more background.  I'm really trying to concentrate on building my core strength right now and while I've had a lot of success I've run into a bit of a roadblock that I feel like is keeping me back.

When I deadlift, I can't hold onto the bar long enough.  My last workout I did 5x5 deadlift shrugs at 195 and I could barely keep my fingers wrapped around the bar.  I feel like I could definitely get to 210 and maybe even 220.

I broke down and bought gloves, I've tried using a split grip, but short of wrist straps I'm not sure what else to try.  I'm torn I feel like using the straps might be sort of a crutch and I should just wait for my supporting muscles (hands/forearms) to catch up with my back in terms of strength.  That is my current plan anyway.

I was wondering if anyone had any other suggestions or reinforcement.  Thanks
-Nick

Split grips, and or chalk.

The routines your doing are very grip intensive... If you can't use chalk, just wait for your grip to catch up... If you use straps, it will just put you at a further disadvantage.

It will pay off (IMO), if you just struggle though, if you don't let them fall to behind, grip strength catches up quick (or at least mine does).

I was in the same position a while back and trust me, your grip catches up quick.   Drop the weight slightly till you can grip it firmly.  Use a alternating grip and chalk if need be like hardway said, ditch the gloves, they will only make it harder (by making the bar thicker). 

I never thought the gloves would make it harder... hmmm.

So my gym does not have a chalk "thingy" but I assume if I hunt enough I could order some or get it from a sporting goods store.  I will have to ask to see if its ok for me to bring it in as I don't think I've EVER seen anyone use chalk on anything.

@Jane ... do you mean split grip, or are you suggesting using both palms forward for the deadlift?

@thehardway ... thanks, I figured going with straps was a bad Idea just wanted to confirm


Just got back from the gym actually, 3x15 day I tried both palms in first set, split rh out, split lh out and still lost the bar on rep 13 set 3.  Thinking about it I am going to drop the weight as its prob better to finish the set.

she meant alternating... we all did. one hand facing you one hand away.

if competition doesnt concern you, strap yourself to the bar. there is nothing sissy about it, and it takes your mind off the grip and focussed purely on lifting the weights in good form.

Bench Press Max - 170kg @ 100kg
Squat Max - 220kg @100kg
Deadlift Max - 275kg @100kg

Weight - 90kg

I use grip strength up to a point. Then If I need them, I add straps. If you push yourself, you will grow stronger with the grip.