In what position does USAW suggest that use of straps may cause injury?

The use of straps in weightlifting, particularly during the phase when the bar enters the receiving position, can pose a risk of injury due to the nature of the movements involved. In this position, the barbell is being caught in a dynamic and often vulnerable part of the lift. The athlete is likely to be experiencing a high load and may find themselves in positions of instability as they stabilize and absorb the weight of the bar.

Using straps can impede the athlete's ability to feel the bar and make necessary adjustments, increasing the risk of improper positioning or loss of control. Ensuring proper grip and connection with the bar during this critical phase is essential for balance and safety, leading to the recommendation against the use of straps at this moment.

In contrast, other phases of lifting, such as lifting off the ground or during cooldown, may not present the same level of imbalance and risk associated with reliance on the straps. Straps can be useful for providing additional grip during certain sections of the lift but can create complications when proper bar path and control are most critical, particularly as the athlete receives the bar.