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Stiff-Legged Dumbbell Deadlift: starting position Stiff-Legged Dumbbell Deadlift: end position

Hip Hinge · Hamstrings

Stiff-Legged Dumbbell Deadlift

A hip hinge exercise that works the hamstrings. Beginner level, using dumbbells.

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Muscles worked

PrimaryHamstrings
SecondaryGlutes, Lower back

Hamstrings and glutes.

Setup and loading

Dumbbells hanging.

How to do the stiff-legged dumbbell deadlift step by step

  1. Stand with dumbbells at your sides.
  2. Hinge forward with your knees nearly locked.
  3. Lower until you feel tension in your hamstrings, then come up.

Form cues

  • Back straight
  • Dumbbells close to your legs

Common mistakes

  • Bending your knees too much
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Sets and reps for your goal

Hypertrophy

3-4 x 8-12 · rest 60-90 s

3-4 sets of 6-12 reps (up to 15-20 on isolation exercises) at 65-80% of your max. Rest 1 to 2 minutes.

Get close to failure (0-3 reps in reserve) and control the lowering for 2-3 seconds. Accumulate 10-20 sets per muscle per week.

Max Strength

4-5 x 3-6 · rest 2-3 min

3-6 sets of 1-6 reps at 80-90% of your max (1RM). Rest 2 to 5 minutes.

Leave 1-3 reps in reserve. If your technique breaks down, lower the weight: strength is built with good reps.

A guide for healthy adults. Adjust the load to your level and see a professional if you have an injury.

Check your form

Film yourself from the side or ask someone to watch, then tick what you get right.

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Sports it suits

Gear for this exercise

  • Adjustable dumbbellsSave space and replace a whole dumbbell rack at home.

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Variations and similar exercises

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