Deadlifting can be a real hassle when you need to change out the weight you have loaded onto the barbell. If you're lifting heavy, the process of adding or removing plates can be a huge pain, especially after a difficult set.

You have to bend down and awkwardly lift up one end of the barbell while struggling to slide the weight plate onto or off of it. Inevitably, the plate ends up scraping against the floor, injuring fingers in the process.

So, what's the solution to this? Well, deadlift jacks were invented to tackle this very issue!

What's a Deadlift Jack?

A deadlift jack is a weightlifting accessory designed to safely and quickly lift heavy barbells off the ground. This is especially useful for deadlifts, clean and jerk, snatch as well as hip thrusts as the barbell can be lifted off the ground without the user having to bend down and lift it with their hands. The deadlift jack is a great tool for anyone looking to add more weight to their deadlift routine, as it allows them to quickly and safely add more weight to the barbell without having to strain their back or risk injury.

Are There Any Downsides to Using L shaped or Double Deadlift Jacks?

As we've said, double deadlift jacks are a great tool for weightlifters and strength trainers, as they make it easier to get the barbell off the ground. However, there are some potential downsides to using them.

For example, while the double jacks are designed to make it easier to lift the barbell, they can still cause injury if used incorrectly. When using a double deadlift jack, make sure to use proper form and avoid jerking or yanking the barbell up from the floor. Additionally, you should always make sure that the jack is securely attached to the barbell before you begin lifting.

Additionally, they can be difficult to store and transport. The double jacks are large and bulky, and they can take up a lot of space in your gym bag or car trunk. Additionally, the jacks are designed to stay affixed to the barbell, which means that you will need to store them separately from the barbell.

Overall, while full or L shaped deadlift jacks are great, they're not for everyone. This is where the alternatives come in!

Alternatives to Deadlift Jacks

There are many alternatives to deadlift jacks that you can use. Some may cost a couple of dollars, while others are completely free!

DIY Deadlift Jack

If you're handy and don't mind getting your hands dirty, you can make your own deadlift jack. All you need is a couple of heavy-duty cinder blocks, a broom handle, and some rope. Stack the cinder blocks, drill a hole through the middle, insert the broom handle, and tie the rope around the handle and the blocks.

The Wedge

The wedge is a great alternative to a deadlift jack. It's a heavy duty device that you insert between two weight plates and allows the bar to be slid up and down. It's a great way to move heavy weights without having to lift them, except for the last plate

Small weight plate or unused flooring

If you have some extra flooring or a small weight plate lying around, you can use it to create a makeshift deadlift jack. Place them underneath the barbell, and use them to lift and lower the weight. This method is not as secure as a traditional deadlift jack, so use caution when lifting heavy weights.

Conclusion

The deadlift jack is a great tool for lifting and lowering heavy weights safely and efficiently. However, if you don't have access to a jack, you can always find alternatives out there. Remember, don't let the hassle of trying to remove and place weights stop you from doing deadlifts. There are many ways to solve this problem, and with a little bit of creativity (and investment), you can enjoy deadlifts just way so much more!

The Barbell Jack offers the go-to deadlift jack solution that you can rely on to optimise your lifting experience.