Deadlifts are both loved and hated by gym goers in their every day routine. Some will religiously keep in the exercises for it’s many benefits, while others will completely avoid it due to dislike or a lack of knowledge of the exercise. Here’s some commonly asked questions around deadlifts.
What muscles do deadlifts work?
The deadlift works out multiple muscles in the body making it a great compound movement. The biggest muscle groups affected by deadlifts include glutes, back, hamstrings and the core.
Why do deadlifts feel like they hurt my back?
Deadlifts (like any exercise) can cause you a few issues if done incorrectly. You may be using too much weight that you’re ready for, meaning your posture and form breaks, your positioning while setting up may be incorrect, or you may me lacking flexibility in your spine or hamstrings.
Start with the right volume of weight for at least 3 to 4 weeks, even practice the technique with just a bar until you’re happy with your form.
As a general rule of thumb, keep your back from sagging and avoid letting it bend too much when lifting (keep that core tight). Keep your feet shoulder-width apart for leverage and to help you maintain balance. Drive the bar upwards by pushing your feet down into the ground, initiating the movement with your legs and hips, not your lower back.
Difference between stiff-leg and Romanian deadlifts?
Believe it or not this is actually a different exercise that not many people realize. Keeping the knees fully locked out while performing this exercise is called a STIFF LEG DEADLIFT…a romanian deadlift will have a slight bend in the knees throughout. Romanian deadlifts are designed to have the bar stop around shin level, while stiff-leg deadlifts can be lowered closer to the ground, sometimes touching. Romanian deadlifts are better for engaging the glutes, while a stiff-leg will give you more hamstring and lower back targeting.
What are the benefits of doing deadlifts?
Deadlifting can increase core strength, core stability and improve your posture. Deadlifting trains most of the muscles in the legs, lower back and core. These are all muscles responsible for posture, which will help keep your shoulders, spine, and hips in alignment. Deadlifts are fantastic for total body development.
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