Deadlifts: Why Barbell Clips Are Often Unnecessary and Potentially Risky

Do you need clips for deadlifts?

For most standard barbell deadlifts, barbell clips (collars) are generally not recommended due to safety concerns related to emergency bailing and the practical unnecessity of securing plates that are already under significant vertical load.

The Primary Purpose of Barbell Collars (Clips)

Barbell collars, often called clips, serve the crucial function of securing weight plates onto a barbell, preventing them from sliding off during exercises. This is vital for exercises where the bar moves in multiple planes (e.g., bench press, overhead press, squats) or where an uneven shift in weight could lead to instability or injury. They ensure the weight remains evenly distributed and stable throughout the lift.

Why Clips are Generally Not Recommended for Deadlifts

While their purpose is clear for many lifts, deadlifts present a unique biomechanical scenario where clips are often counterproductive and can even pose a risk.

• Safety in Case of Emergency (Bailing): The most significant reason to avoid clips for deadlifts is the ability to "bail" or safely exit the lift if something goes wrong. If you lose balance, experience a sudden muscle cramp, or the weight becomes unmanageable, being able to dump the weight by letting the plates slide off the bar allows for a rapid and safe disengagement from the lift. With clips, the plates are fixed, meaning the entire bar and all its weight must be dropped, which can be less controlled and potentially hazardous to the lifter, the floor, or nearby equipment/people.
• Even Weight Distribution (Myth vs. Reality): Some believe clips are necessary to keep the weight evenly distributed. However, during a deadlift, the plates are primarily under a direct vertical load, pressing against the sleeves of the barbell due to gravity. They are not prone to sliding inward or outward significantly during the concentric or eccentric phases of a properly executed deadlift. Any minor shift is usually negligible and does not compromise the lift's integrity or safety.
• Efficient Plate Loading/Unloading: Practically, not using clips makes loading and unloading plates much faster and easier, especially when performing multiple sets with varying weights or when sharing a bar. This efficiency is particularly appreciated in busy gym environments.

When Collars Might Be Considered (Niche Scenarios)

While the general recommendation is against clips for traditional barbell deadlifts, there are a few specific, niche scenarios where their use might be justified:

• Specialty Bars: For certain specialty bars like hex bars (trap bars) or cambered deadlift bars, the design might allow plates to slide more easily than on a standard straight barbell, especially if the sleeves are shorter or angled differently. In such cases, if plates are noticeably shifting, clips could be considered.
• Controlled, Lighter Loads: When performing deadlifts with very light weights, such as during warm-ups, rehabilitation exercises, or accessory work where the focus is on extreme control and stability, and the risk of an uncontrolled drop is minimal, clips might be used. However, this is more for preference than necessity.
• Specific Training Environments: In very crowded gyms where there's a high risk of someone accidentally kicking or bumping unsecured plates off the bar, clips might be used as a precautionary measure to prevent plates from rolling away and becoming a tripping hazard. This prioritizes general gym safety over specific deadlift bail-out safety.

The Risk of Using Clips for Deadlifts

Using clips for deadlifts, especially with heavy loads, introduces several potential risks:

• Compromised Bail-Out: As previously mentioned, the inability to quickly and safely shed weight is the primary concern. This can lead to awkward drops, loss of balance, or being pinned by the bar.
• Increased Risk of Injury: An uncontrolled drop of a clipped bar can cause the bar to bounce erratically, potentially striking the lifter's shins, feet, or other body parts. It also increases the impact force on the floor and plates, leading to potential equipment damage.
• Unnecessary Complexity: For a lift that is fundamentally about lifting a heavy object from the floor, adding an unnecessary element that complicates safety and efficiency is generally counterproductive.

Best Practices for Deadlifting Safety (Regardless of Clips)

Regardless of whether you use clips, true deadlift safety hinges on fundamental principles:

• Proper Form: Consistently prioritize correct technique over the amount of weight lifted. A neutral spine, proper hip hinge, and engagement of the posterior chain are paramount.
• Appropriate Weight Selection: Lift within your capabilities. Ego lifting is a leading cause of injury. Progress gradually.
• Controlled Descent (or Drop): If you're not using clips, understand how to safely lower or drop the bar. For controlled eccentrics, maintain form. For emergency drops, ensure the area is clear.
• Awareness of Surroundings: Always be mindful of people, equipment, and obstacles in your lifting area.
• Quality Equipment: Ensure your barbell is straight and your plates are in good condition.

Conclusion

For the vast majority of standard barbell deadlifts, clips are not only unnecessary but can also introduce a safety risk by preventing a quick and safe bail-out. The inherent vertical loading of the deadlift means plates are unlikely to slide significantly, making clips largely redundant. Prioritize proper form, appropriate weight selection, and an understanding of how to safely handle the bar to ensure a safe and effective deadlift practice.