Dumbbell Straight-Leg Deadlift
The straight-leg deadlift with a dumbbell in each hand in front of the thighs; the knees stay nearly locked, so the range ends at the hamstrings' stretch.
How to do it
Setup
Standing tall, bells in front of the thighs, feet hip-width, knees almost straight.
Steps
- Hinge at the hips, bells sliding down the fronts of the legs.
- Stop as the bells reach the feet or the hamstrings pull hard, back still flat.
- Stand back up by driving the hips through, glutes tight.
Common mistakes
Bending the knees to take the bells lower: they stay nearly locked; the hinge alone lowers the bells. Bells swinging away from the legs: keep them brushing the thighs and shins. Rounding the upper back at the bottom: chest long, shoulders back.
Breathing
Inhale hinging, exhale standing.
