5 Step Deadlift Set Up to Improve Your Technique
Want to improve your deadlift technique? Check out our step-by-step guide from Personal Trainers Harley Booth and Megan Knight on how to set up for the conventional deadlift with an Olympic Barbell. Whether you’re new to deadlifts or just looking to level up your form and lift heavier, these tips will help.
Why Should I Include Deadlifts in My Workouts?
One of the three big gym lifts, the deadlifts popularity rivals the squat in a battle to be the king of all exercises.
And there’s no wonder they’re so popular. Deadlifts are an amazing compound exercise that works your posterior chain, develops your core strength, and can increase muscle strength and size. It’s a great total body exercise that you definitely want to have in your workout routine!
Probably the best part about the deadlift is that it’s a functional exercise that replicates real life movements. Imagine picking an item off the floor and putting it back down again. While it may seem simple, the ability to lift a heavy load can help to avoid injury when lifting things in your day-to-day life – helping to protect your back and improve your posture.
Not to mention, lifting in general is effective for muscle growth and empowering for the mind, benefitting both our physical and mental health. So, we think deadlifts are a win, win situation!
What Type of Deadlifts Are Best?
You may be familiar with various other types of deadlifts, from dumbbell deadlifts and Romanian deadlifts to kettlebell deadlifts and sandbag deadlifts – we’ve shared several deadlift variations to try here. These all have a place in a gym routine, but using a barbell can allow for greater loading which makes it easier to really challenge yourself and get stronger!
What Equipment Do I Need to Set-Up for The Conventional Deadlift?
To set up for the conventional deadlift you’ll need an Olympic Barbell loaded with some weight plates. The plates help to elevate the bar off up the floor, which helps with your set up position.
When picking what weight to use, remember to start light and master form before adding more. The plates can go up increments of 5kg so you can gradually increase as you start to get stronger.
While the deadlift may sound simple, it’s super important to ensure the correct technique is adopted to target the correct muscle groups and avoid injury.