Master This Move: Barbell Deadlift

This is one of the most popular exercises in fitness used in weightlifting, bodybuilding, powerlifting, and strength and conditioning. This exercise is often measured to help gauge total-body strength, and competitions take place all around the world to judge the amount of weight someone can deadlift. Additionally, the barbell deadlift is used in all facets of fitness, considering we need to be able to pick things up and down off the floor our entire lives.

Beginner considerations:

If you have a history of back injuries and/or pain, please consult your doctor or therapists—you will need to proceed with extra caution. A solid hip-hinge pattern and thoracic extension are two very important pieces to a good barbell deadlift.

Best practices:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvV0CtQssG8

Master This: Barbell Deadlift

Make it easier: Perform from a rack position. You also can sub the barbell for a center-hold kettlebell deadlift.

Make it harder: Increase load or number of reps.

Photo credit: Tom Casey, box24studio.com
Model: Krista Jacobs, 24 Hour Fitness