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Last updated March 30, 2026
AdductorsCalvesHamstringsQuadricepsLatsLower BackTeres MajorTrapezius
Deadlift (Dumbbell)
Hold DBs at sides or front. Hinge and squat slightly to touch floor. Stand up.
Quick facts
- Level
- Intermediate
- Mechanic
- Compound
- Force
- Pull
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Moderate
- Hypertrophy
- Very High
- Calorie Burn
- Medium-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
Dumbbell
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 with your feet hip-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing your body.
- Position the dumbbells in front of your thighs, keeping your arms straight.
- Step 2Position Your Body
- Bend your knees slightly and hinge forward at your hips, keeping your back straight and chest up.
- Ensure your gaze is forward to maintain a neutral spine.
- Step 3Grip the Dumbbells
- Grab the dumbbells with an overhand grip, ensuring your hands are shoulder-width apart.
- Keep your arms extended towards the floor while maintaining a slight bend in your elbows.
- Step 4Engage Your Core
- Tighten your core muscles to stabilize your body during the lift.
- Make sure your shoulder blades are retracted and your back remains straight.
- Step 5Lift the Dumbbells
- Push through your heels and extend your hips and knees to lift the dumbbells off the ground.
- Keep the dumbbells close to your body as you rise to a standing position.
- Step 6Lower the Dumbbells
- Reverse the movement by hinging at your hips and bending your knees to lower the dumbbells back to the starting position.
- Maintain control and keep your back straight throughout the descent.
- Step 7Repeat
- Perform the desired number of repetitions, ensuring that your form remains consistent with each rep.
- Step 8Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully set the dumbbells down on the floor.
- Stand upright with your back straight before stepping away from the weights.
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