Well there are many fine points that have been made which I fully agree with. One of them being the use of rack pulls. The difficulty one faces when doing rack, or block pulls is the ability to simulate the proper grove that you would be in when performing the full range movement itself. Many find them worthless, and find that they do not aid in any way to a full range pull. For some time I actually followed this train of thought, and dropped them from my programming. It was around the time that I had been plateaued just below the 700 mark. I found that I was beginning to have issues with my lock out, which had never been a problem in the past. (If I could break it off the floor, then it was a sure lift). I began looking back into block pulls, and started implementing them back into my training once every 2 to 3 weeks, depending on my block of training. I took the time to go in with a camera, and record my lifts from the side, and would then watch after a set. I was eventually able to learn the starting position where I would normally be during a full range set. After a few months of training, and occasionally implementing them back in, I broke 700 with a 705 pull during my comp. I find that they can be a very valuable training tool when done, and utilized properly. Another one of my favorites is the deficit deadlift. I have used various heights, and found that the increased time under tension has added more to my numbers than any other supplemental lift. Once again, many do not like the deficit deadlift, but I have found that it works for me, and the 2.5" deficit seems to be my happy medium that produces the best results. There are many exercises out there that will work for some, but not for others. Experiment wisely, and decide for yourself if they work for you, or if they should be tossed to the side. Many variables go into program design, so also remember that many of these exercises work best during certain periods of a training cycle. Just because you found little use for one during period A with x sets and y reps, doesnt mean they wont work well during period B or C. Bands were also mentioned. In my programming I use bands, and chains quite regularly. More so than block pulls actually.
