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PowerliftingintermediateBarbell

Deficit Deadlift

Primary
Lower Back
Secondary
Forearms, Glutes, Hamstrings, Middle Back, Quadriceps, Traps
Equipment
Barbell
Level
intermediate

Deficit Deadlift demonstration

Deficit Deadlift, starting position
Deficit Deadlift, starting position
Deficit Deadlift, finishing position
Deficit Deadlift, finishing position

How to Perform

  1. 1Begin by having a platform or weight plates that you can stand on, usually 1-3 inches in height. Approach the bar so that it is centered over your feet. You feet should be about hip width apart. Bend at the hip to grip the bar at shoulder width, allowing your shoulder blades to protract. Typically, you would use an overhand grip or an over/under grip on heavier sets.
  2. 2With your feet, and your grip set, take a big breath and then lower your hips and bend the knees until your shins contact the bar. Look forward with your head, keep your chest up and your back arched, and begin driving through the heels to move the weight upward. After the bar passes the knees, aggressively pull the bar back, pulling your shoulder blades together as you drive your hips forward into the bar.
  3. 3Lower the bar by bending at the hips and guiding it to the floor.

Video Tutorial

Tips & Common Mistakes

  • •Focus on controlled movements rather than speed or momentum
  • •Maintain proper breathing - exhale during the exertion phase
  • •Start with lighter weight to master the form before progressing
  • •As a compound movement, this exercise works multiple muscle groups efficiently

Muscles Worked

Front
Back
Lower BackForearmsGlutesHamstringsMiddle BackQuadricepsTraps

Exercise Details

Category
Powerlifting
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Level
intermediate

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Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Deficit Deadlift work?

Deficit Deadlift primarily targets the Lower Back. It also works the Forearms, Glutes, Hamstrings, Middle Back, Quadriceps, Traps as secondary muscles.

What equipment do I need for Deficit Deadlift?

Deficit Deadlift requires Barbell.

Is Deficit Deadlift suitable for beginners?

Deficit Deadlift is classified as intermediate level. Beginners should master foundational movements first.

Alternatives to Deficit Deadlift

Substitute any of these when the equipment is taken or unavailable. They train the same primary muscles.