Either hand may be used. The bar may be raised either in front of the lifter, as in a two-hand deadlift, or the lifter may straddle the bar. Hook gripping is permitted. The free hand may be used to brace against the legs and/or body but may not be a brace upon completion of the lift. Foot spacing is optional, but may not change once the lift begins. The bar must be raised to a point where both ends of the bar remain knee high and the legs must be straight. The hands may not be changed during the competition.