Looking back, my deadlift has improved ten folds. But doesn't mean I am closer to where I want to be. We get good at something until we aren't good anymore. Then it's time to evaluate and reassess. Months ago, before the meet, I was experiencing shoulder pain while deadlifting. It didn't make sense and I was worried I had an injury that was just getting worse. Lifting in briefs now, I get to take advantage and really trust my hips. Duh, thats what you use them for. But something was off. I thought it was a strength issue. I wasn’t using gear correctly. Why wasn’t I fast off the floor. After talking with Dave and just after a few warm ups, he was able to see what was off.
Before you blame your strength, revert back to your technique.
My setup was offsetting my shoulders. My right shoulder was over the bar and my left was just behind it. Potential issues with a supinated/pronate grip versus a hook grip and your shoulders are relatively even.
I adjusted my setup and it made world of a difference. I've also felt less shoulder pain. Almost none.
Pulling in the bar before setting my grip helped with setting my shoulders and lats. Check it out:
[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZDIwQQv5_c]
[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HOOBYnrQ53g]