Deadlifts

[Timber99]

Hi Cathe,

Quick Question(s): are dead lifts more a back or hamstring exercise? Or is it always equally working both? Also, is there a modification that helps target one more than the other (ie using dumbbells under the toes) or is it always equal for both body parts?

Hope all is well!

 

[kathryn]

Deadlifts are primarily for the glutes and hamstrings.

The Romanian or stiff-legged deadlifts (like Cathe does in her workouts) do work the back more isometricly, but there should be no movement in the back itself when doing them (watch especially for a rounded back, which can lead to injury.) All movement is from the hip joint.

True gym style deadlifts (lifting the bar off the ground, and following a path of movement similar to a squat) are more of a total body move, and shift more of the work to the quads.