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Last updated March 2, 2026
AdductorsCalvesHamstringsQuadricepsLatsLower BackTeres MajorTrapeziusAbductorsGlutes
Deadlift - Deficit (Barbell)
Stand on a plate or low platform. Perform deadlift. The extra range of motion makes it harder off the floor.
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
Glutes (max)
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
BarbellPlate
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.
- Step 1Setup
- Stand on a platform or a weight plate to create a deficit, with your feet hip-width apart.
- Position a barbell over your midfoot, ensuring it is centered.
- Step 2Grab the Bar
- Bend at your hips and knees to reach down and grasp the barbell with an overhand grip, hands shoulder-width apart.
- Ensure your grip is firm and your arms are straight.
- Step 3Position Your Body
- Lower your hips and keep your chest up, engaging your core and retracting your shoulder blades.
- Your back should be straight, and your gaze should be forward to maintain proper neck alignment.
- Step 4Lift the Bar
- Push through your heels and extend your hips and knees simultaneously to lift the barbell off the ground.
- Keep the bar close to your body as you lift, driving your hips forward.
- Step 5Lockout
- Stand tall at the top of the lift, fully extending your hips and knees.
- Ensure your shoulders are back and your chest is proud at the top position.
- Step 6Lower the Bar
- Hinge at your hips and bend your knees to lower the barbell back to the starting position.
- Maintain control and keep the bar close to your body as you descend.
- Step 7Repeat
- Perform the desired number of repetitions, ensuring to maintain proper form throughout each lift.
- Step 8Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully stand upright with the barbell in front of you.
- Safely place the barbell back on the ground or a rack.
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