Better Deadlift Better Performance

A recent study* using athletes indicated that the better an athlete does in the deadlift, the better they perform at their particular sport.

The deadlift builds functional strength as it is performed in the basic position of many athletic movements. It strengthens more muscle groups in one movement than any other exercise. While strengthening the core of power; the midsection.

Years of work in this exercise will also give you a <nice> good grip. While the deadlift can be the most performance enhancing exercise, if not executed properly it can also be the most damaging to your body.

To execute the deadlift, place your feet shoulder-width apart (wider if you prefer). The bar on the floor should be resting against your shins. Bend down and grip the bar with a straight back, shoulder width apart, and shoulders over the bar. With the weight evenly balanced through your feet, looking up and ahead, keep your arms straight, lift the barbell by attempting to push your feet through the floor.

Use the force generated through your legs and hips to get the bar moving, not your back. As the bar moves, keep it scraping against your shins and over your knees until you reach the upright position. During the entire movement your back muscles should be locked, traps tensed and arms straight. The deadlift is a simple movement that involves complex interaction of many muscles.

*Strength and Conditioning Journal. 22:5;18-20, 2000