Barbell Deadlift
How to do the Barbell Deadlift
- 1
Stand in front of a loaded barbell.
- 2
While keeping the back as straight as possible, bend your knees, bend forward and grasp the bar using a medium (shoulder width) overhand grip. This will be the starting position of the exercise. Tip: If it is difficult to hold on to the bar with this grip, alternate your grip or use wrist straps.
- 3
While holding the bar, start the lift by pushing with your legs while simultaneously getting your torso to the upright position as you breathe out. In the upright position, stick your chest out and contract the back by bringing the shoulder blades back. Think of how the soldiers in the military look when they are in standing in attention.
- 4
Go back to the starting position by bending at the knees while simultaneously leaning the torso forward at the waist while keeping the back straight. When the weights on the bar touch the floor you are back at the starting position and ready to perform another repetition.
- 5
Perform the amount of repetitions prescribed in the program.
How to program the Barbell Deadlift
Sets and reps
As a compound movement, the Barbell Deadlift responds well to heavier loading. For strength, work in the 3–5 sets of 4–8 reps range with 2–3 minutes of rest between sets. For muscle growth, 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with 90 seconds of rest is the classic hypertrophy zone. Place it early in your session, when you're freshest, and leave 1–3 reps in reserve on most sets.
Progression
The Barbell Deadlift is rated intermediate. Earn the right to progress: only add load when every rep of every set moves with consistent technique. Video your sets or use a mirror to check positions, and use double progression (add reps to the top of your range, then add load and reset) rather than jumping weight.
Secondary muscles worked
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Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the Barbell Deadlift work?
The Barbell Deadlift primarily targets the Lower Back. It also recruits the Calves, Forearms, Glutes, Hamstrings, Lats, Middle Back, Quadriceps, Traps as supporting muscles.
What equipment do I need for the Barbell Deadlift?
You need Barbell. Difficulty level: Intermediate.
How many sets and reps of the Barbell Deadlift should I do?
For strength, do 3–5 sets of 4–8 reps with 2–3 minutes rest. For muscle growth, do 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with about 90 seconds rest.
