How To Do Stiff Leg Deadlift
Video Demonstration of Proper Form for Stiff Leg Deadlifts
Stiff-Legged Barbell Deadlift Instructions:
Grasp a bar using an overhand grip (palms facing down). You may need some wrist wraps if using a significant amount of weight.
Stand with your torso straight and your legs spaced using a shoulder width or narrower stance. The knees should be slightly bent. This is your starting position.
Keeping the knees stationary, lower the barbell to over the top of your feet by bending at the waist while keeping your back straight and chest up.
Keep moving forward as if you were going to pick something from the floor until you feel a stretch on the hamstrings. Inhale as you perform this part of the movement. Start bringing your torso up straight again by extending your hips until you are back at the starting position. Exhale as you perform this movement.
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Caution: This is not an exercise that is recommended for people with lower back problems since any small form variance can cause a totally different group of muscles to be activated. Pay attention not to round the back forward as you move into the downward position; the back should always be straight. Fast or jerking motions or adding too much weight can cause serious injury to your back. Variations: The exercise can also be performed with a dumbbell.