Starting Strength Coach Connor King breaks down the exact 5-step process to perform the deadlift. This video is from a Squat and Deadlift Camp at our Starting Strength Affiliate Gym in Costa Mesa, California.
Introduction to the Deadlift
Deadlifting is a fundamental exercise that engages numerous muscles across your body. However, mastering the deadlift requires understanding the mechanics and ensuring that you execute the movement correctly to avoid injury and maximize strength gains.
The Importance of Proper Form
The deadlift isn't just about lifting heavy weights; it's about doing so safely and efficiently. The muscles in our back, like any other muscles, need to be stressed to grow stronger. However, this stress must be applied in a safe and consistent manner. It’s crucial to find an appropriate amount of stress and a baseline that you can consistently replicate, ensuring you perform the deadlift correctly every time.
Step-by-Step Deadlift Technique
1. **Approach and Stance**: Begin by standing with your feet hip-width apart, toes pointing slightly out, and shins about one inch from the bar. This position should place the bar directly over the middle of your feet, aligning it with your center of mass for optimal lifting.
2. **Grip and Position**: Bend over with your legs straight and grab the bar just outside your legs. Ensure the bar does not move from its position over the middle of your feet.
3. **Setting the Back**: Bend your knees until your shins touch the bar, but do not move the bar. Set your gaze to a point that keeps your neck in a neutral position, take a deep breath, and tighten your chest upwards to lock your back in place.
4. **The Lift**: Drive your feet through the ground, pulling the bar up along your legs until you are fully standing. The movement should be a smooth drag, keeping the bar close to your body.
5. **Returning the Weight**: To return the weight, start by pushing your hips back. Once the bar passes your knees, you can bend your legs to lower the bar to the ground. This should be a controlled drop, not slow, to conserve energy for the next lift.
Understanding the Mechanics
The deadlift is about lifting efficiently. Lifting the bar when it's directly over the middle of your foot makes the process easier and more natural. If the bar is too far forward, it becomes awkward and difficult to lift, which can lead to improper form and potential injury.
Conclusion: Practice and Consistency
Deadlifting correctly requires practice and consistency. It's not supposed to be comfortable initially as the position and the tension might feel unusual. However, maintaining proper form is crucial for effective and safe lifting. Remember, the goal is not just to lift but to build strength safely and efficiently. As you practice, you'll find that what once felt uncomfortable becomes a strong and confident movement.