THE STANDARD BARBELL deadlift is widely esteemed as a strength training essential. For good reason, too: The compound lift fires up the hamstrings and glutes, while engaging other muscles through your quads, back, and abs. For most guys, deadlift day begins and ends with the Olympic (or straight) barbell. This unforgiving implement is generally how most strength sports (like powerlifting and strongman) engage with the deadlift, and it is a useful tool to build strength and size – but it might not be the most functional way to train the movement. That distinction goes to another piece of gear: the trap bar.