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Last updated February 2, 2026
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adductorscalveshamstringsquadricepslatslower backteres majortrapeziusabductorsglutes

Straight Leg Deadlift (SDL) (Kettlebell)

Hold a kettlebell with both hands. Push your hips back to lower the weight towards the floor. Keep your back completely flat.

Quick facts

Difficulty
Moderate
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

kettlebell

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 upright with your feet hip-width apart, holding a kettlebell with both hands in front of your thighs.
    • Keep your knees slightly bent and hinge forward at your hips, lowering the kettlebell towards the ground while maintaining a straight back.
  2. Step 2Grip the Kettlebell
    • Use both hands to grip the kettlebell handle with an overhand grip.
    • Ensure your arms are straight and your shoulders are back and down.
  3. Step 3Position Your Body
    • Engage your core and keep your back straight as you hinge at the hips.
    • Your head should be in a neutral position, looking forward, not down.
  4. Step 4Lower the Kettlebell
    • Lower the kettlebell towards the ground by pushing your hips back, keeping the kettlebell close to your body.
    • Go down until you feel a stretch in your hamstrings, ensuring your back remains straight.
  5. Step 5Lift the Kettlebell
    • Drive through your heels and extend your hips forward to lift the kettlebell back up to the starting position.
    • Keep your core engaged and maintain a straight back throughout the lift.
  6. Step 6Repeat
    • Repeat the lowering and lifting motion for the desired number of repetitions.
    • Focus on maintaining proper form with each rep to avoid injury.
  7. Step 7Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your reps, carefully set the kettlebell down on the floor.
    • Stand upright and take a moment to recover before moving on to your next exercise.
Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025