Movement library

Deadlift

BarbellHamstrings, Glutes, Back, GripBarbell

Lift the bar from the floor to standing with a flat back. It is the most basic test of total body strength.

How to do it

  • Bar over the middle of your foot
  • Hips higher than knees, shoulders over the bar
  • Brace, then push the floor away
  • Bar stays in contact with your legs
  • Finish tall, do not lean back

Watch out for

  • Rounding the lower back
  • Bar drifting away from the body
  • Hips shooting up first

Make it easier

Deadlift with kettlebells or dumbbells, or pull from blocks.

Used in