Determining and comparing the optimum power loads in hexagonal and straight bar deadlifts in novice strength-trained males

Study aim: This study aimed to determine and compare the 'optimum power load' in the hexagonal (HBDL) and straight (SBDL) bar deadlift exercises. Material and methods: Fifteen novice strength-trained males performed three repetitions of the HBDL and SBDL at loads from 20-90% of their one-repetition maximum (1RM). Peak power, average power, peak velocity, and average velocity were determined from each repetition using a velocity-based linear position transducer. Results: Repeated measures ANOVA revealed a significant effect of load for HBDL and SBDL (all p < 0.001). Post-hoc analyses revealed peak power outputs for HBDL were similar across 50-90% 1RM, with the highest peak power recorded at 80% 1RM (1053 W). The peak power outputs for SBDL were similar across 40-90% 1RM, with the highest peak power recorded at 90% 1RM (843 W). A paired sample t-test revealed that HBDL showed greater peak power at 60% (Hedges' g effect size g = 0.53), average power at 50-70%, (g = 0.56-0.74), and average velocity at 50% of 1RM (g = 0.53). However, SBDL showed greater peak velocity at 20% (g = 0.52) and average velocity at 90% of 1RM (g = 0.44). Conclusion: Practitioners can use these determined loads to target peak power and peak velocity outputs for the HBDL and SBDL exercises (e.g., 50-90% 1RM in HBDL). The HBDL may offer additional advantages resulting in greater peak power and average power outputs than the SBDL.