HOW TO DEADLIFT

The Deadlift is a good exercise for improving strength, particularly your overall posture to prevent you from injury.

The main muscles that make up the Posterior Chain are the calf muscles, hamstrings, gluteus maximus, latissimus dorsi and the erector spinae muscles.

Performing a deadlift exercise doesn’t just require the legs and back but it also requires you to use your arms and abs so it’s also a good movement to master for toning the whole body. 

Every time you bend down to pick something up, you are essentially performing a deadlift, so it’s a practical and functional exercise that would be worth adding to your exercise routine.

Other than developing real strength, there are several more benefits to performing the deadlift. 

​

See variations of deadlift exercises below, which includes video demonstrations and a how-to guide.

DEADLIFT TIPS

  • Think about keeping your shoulders back and down and maintain a neutral spine throughout the whole movement to avoid rounding your back.

  • Brace your abs and pull the bar (or dumbbells) in a smooth motion off the floor.

  • Keep the bar (or dumbbells) close to your body while performing the whole movement.

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DEADLIFTS

Are deadlifts bad for you?

Deadlifting with bad form can be bad for your back but deadlifting safely with the correct form will hugely strengthen your back, hamstrings and glutes. It's a great exercise to help improve strength and build muscle. Make sure to spend some time learning how to deadlift with good form before increasing the weight you lift. If you need any help, feel free to ask a member or staff.



Do deadlifts build muscle?

Deadlifts is a great weight exercise that can help to build muscle and improve strength in the following areas: quads, glutes, back, shoulders, arms.



Will deadlifts burn bodyfat?

Deadlifts can help to burn body fat provided you are in a calorie deficit. This exercise uses multiple muscle groups which can help to burn calories and aid fat loss.



What is a good weight to start with when deadlifting?

We are all about technique, technique and more technique. At THE GYM we often get a beginner starting with a single kettlebell or only a light Olympic bar to start with, to get an understanding of what the deadlift movement requires before increasing the weight. Again if you have any doubts of deadlifting, do not hesitate to ask a member of staff when you are next at THE GYM.