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Last updated March 2, 2026
AdductorsCalvesHamstringsQuadricepsLatsLower BackTeres MajorTrapeziusAbductorsGlutes

Deadlift (Barbell)

Stand with feet hip-width apart. Grip the bar, drop your hips, and lift by driving through the floor. Keep the bar close to your legs and your back straight.

Quick facts

Level
Advanced
Mechanic
Compound
Force
Pull
Type
Strength
Injury Risk
High
Hypertrophy
Very High
Calorie Burn
High

Muscle focus

Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.

Primary

Hamstrings

Secondary

Lower Back

Equipment & setup

What you need and how to position yourself before starting.

Equipment

Barbell

Movement pattern

Bilateral

Posture

Standing

Tracking parameters

repsweight

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.

  1. Step 1Setup
    • Stand with your feet hip-width apart, with the barbell positioned over the middle of your feet.
    • Bend at your hips and knees to lower your body and grip the barbell with both hands, using an overhand grip.
  2. Step 2Grip the Bar
    • Place your hands shoulder-width apart on the barbell.
    • Ensure your grip is firm and your wrists are straight.
  3. Step 3Position Your Body
    • Keep your chest up and your back straight, with your shoulder blades retracted.
    • Engage your core and look forward to maintain a neutral spine.
  4. Step 4Lift the Bar
    • Push through your heels and extend your hips and knees simultaneously to lift the barbell off the ground.
    • Keep the barbell close to your body as you lift, maintaining a straight back.
  5. Step 5Stand Tall
    • Continue lifting until you are fully upright, with your shoulders back and chest proud.
    • Avoid leaning back at the top of the movement.
  6. Step 6Lower the Bar
    • Hinge at your hips and bend your knees to lower the barbell back to the ground.
    • Keep the bar close to your body and maintain a straight back throughout the descent.
  7. Step 7Repeat
    • Perform the desired number of repetitions, ensuring to maintain proper form throughout each lift.
  8. Step 8Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your reps, carefully place the barbell down on the ground.
    • Stand up straight and take a moment to recover before moving on to your next exercise.

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Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025