The deadlift can be a tricky exercise. Keys to remember: always keep your core engaged (keep the ribs down toward your pelvis), keep your spine in neutral (no arching up or down), move from the hips. When your weight is at the ground, your knees should be bent enough that you can maintain your neutral spine while still feeling tension throughout the backs of your legs. If you feel relaxed in the backs of your legs, straighten them a bit before lifting. To lift off the ground, tighten your glutes and stand up. As you lower back toward the ground, push your hips backward rather than bend at the waist – this will cause rounding. If you cannot reach the ground without arching/rounding your back, set the weights down on a block or bench at a level that will allow you to do the movement without compromising your core or spine. Repeat as directed.
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