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Last updated March 5, 2026

AdductorsCalvesHamstringsQuadricepsLatsLower BackTeres MajorTrapezius
Straight Leg Deadlift (SDL) (Band)
Stand on a band holding the ends. Hinge your hips back while keeping your back flat. Feel a deep stretch in your hamstrings before standing up.
Quick facts
- Level
- Beginner
- Mechanic
- Compound
- Force
- Pull
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Low
- Hypertrophy
- Low
- Calorie Burn
- Medium
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
Resistance Band
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 upright with your feet hip-width apart, holding a resistance band with both hands.
- Place the band under your feet and hold the ends with your hands, keeping your arms straight.
- Step 2Position Your Body
- Hinge at your hips and bend slightly at your knees, keeping your back straight and core engaged.
- Ensure that your chest is up and your gaze is forward to maintain proper alignment.
- Step 3Engage Your Core
- Tighten your abdominal muscles to stabilize your spine throughout the movement.
- Keep your shoulders back and down, avoiding any rounding of your upper back.
- Step 4Lift
- Push through your heels and extend your hips forward to lift your torso back to standing position.
- Keep the band taut as you lift, feeling the tension in your hamstrings and glutes.
- Step 5Lower
- Hinge at your hips again to lower your torso back down, maintaining a straight back.
- Control the movement as you lower, ensuring the band remains taut throughout.
- Step 6Repeat
- Perform the lift and lower for the desired number of repetitions, focusing on maintaining good form.
- Step 7Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully stand upright and release the band.
- Take a moment to stretch your hamstrings and lower back after the exercise.
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