The Saxon Bar deadlift, also known as Arthur Saxon's deadlift, is a rather rare and narrowly focused pulling exercise.
This type of barbell is a historical apparatus named after one of the greatest strength athletes of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Arthur Saxon. He could snatch a 5-centimeter thick, 90-kilogram pine board from the ground to extended arms.
In modern times, the Saxon Bar is a rectangular bar with an 80 mm diameter in the hand area. It is lifted with an overhand grip using a pinch grip.
Benefits and Working Muscles
The primary benefit of this exercise is the development of the pinch grip. Additionally, it engages the entire back and legs, as it is essentially a deadlift with a different bar.
Of course, the working weight here will be relatively small compared to other deadlifts.
Application
Primarily used in arm lifting, as it is one of its main disciplines with its own standards. Powerlifters and other strength athletes can also incorporate this exercise.
However, this exercise is not quite suitable for beginners.
Where to Find This Equipment
Here's the problem: you are unlikely to find such a bar in a regular sports store.
Therefore, there are two options:
Option 1: If you just want to try it out and strengthen your pinch grip, it's easier to make such a barbell yourself. You just need to find an 80x80 mm profile, which is the standard used in competitions. Then, weld "plates for the weights" to the profile, with a diameter of either 30 or 50 mm.
Here's a good video on how to make a Saxon Bar yourself:
Option 2: If you are preparing for competitions or just want to have the original equipment, try looking for a Saxon Bar from grip strength equipment manufacturers, such as IronMind. However, the price will be high.
You can watch the competitive Arthur Saxon deadlift here:
As you can see, it is mostly performed in the classic style, although the sumo style is also allowed. It's important to lock out at the top for a couple of seconds after lifting and straightening the torso.
Technique for Performing Arthur Saxon's Deadlift
Overall, the technique is similar to the conventional deadlift, with the exception of the different bar.
- Approach the bar with your feet shoulder-width apart. If you prefer sumo, you can try a wide stance.
- Bend forward, keeping your back straight at the top, with an S-shaped arch in the lower back.
- Knees bent at about a 45-degree angle.
- Lower yourself to the bar and pull, pressing your shins against it.
- Overhand grip, about shoulder-width apart if using the classic style.
- Tense your fingers as much as possible for a good grip, then use leg strength to lift until fully upright.
- Lower the bar back to the floor.
Be sure to thoroughly warm up your fingers and use chalk. Personal observations have shown that it is very important to press the thumb firmly against the bar for better fixation.
Increase the weight very gradually. Start with the empty bar.
Place in Training
On grip training day, possibly during an arm lifting workout. It is better to do it before the hub lift, as it will fatigue the pinch grip, making it harder to work with the Saxon Bar.
Training Program
This can be the most challenging aspect. If you use the same approaches and repetitions in each workout with a standard linear load, your progress will quickly stall. You need to experiment and vary your approaches. If you see that the weight is increasing, then it's good, that's what you need. But this is relevant if you need constant progress.
If not, and it's just your "accessory work," then just perform it with a moderate weight.
