I think that “axial loading of the spine” is a reference to the “axial skeleton.” Anything you’d do while standing and with a weight in your hands will provide that, including deadlifts, IMHO.Well, I just read a counter-argument to my position in the book the "Barbell Prescription" highly recommended by the way. The author states that axial loading of the spine is found to promote bone density. Back squats and overhead pressing are therefore recommended.
-S-