Dr. Stuart McGill on Footwear, Focal Point, and Cues in the Deadlift

When I did my recent research for Pulling Science, I had the opportunity to talk with Dr. Stuart McGill.

There’s a good chance you’ve heard his name before. I think it’s safe to say he’s the world’s foremost expert on performance and injury of the low back. He’s performed research in the field, taught for decades, and worked with world-class athletes.

It was an absolute honor to talk with him again. I have learned so much from reading his books and even more when I’ve got to talk to him. He stopped by our facility a few months ago and blew everyone away with his knowledge.

The conversation I had with Dr. McGill was recorded. That gave me the chance to go back and review his comments as I was writing Pulling Science, and it also gives you a chance to listen in! Get ready for your mind to be blown.

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Here’s what Dr. McGill had to say when I asked him about what cues he gave to athletes during the deadlift:

There’s so much wisdom in what Dr. McGill says. So often we coaches get in our little camps – and it’s all too easy for coaches to think that what works for their handful of athletes is going to work for everyone.

But that’s just the start of Dr. McGill’s insight. His individual approach doesn’t stop with cues. Here’s what he had to say about footwear and focal point during the pull:

Whether you’re an athlete or a coach, try bracketing the particulars of the deadlift the way that Dr. McGill advises. You may end up finding out that a totally different arrangement could be helpful in your pull.

Thanks to Dr. McGill again for speaking with me – and stay tuned for more insight from this incredible mind.