Deadlift Focus

(Week 1, Strength Forge)
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Day Overview

Main deadlift work to build maximal pulling strength. Accessories target posterior chain, grip, and core to support deadlift performance and prevent injury. Emphasis on controlled, high-intensity lifts.

Exercises

  • Deadlift

    The deadlift is a compound exercise that involves lifting a loaded barbell or bar from the ground to the level of the hips, then lowering it back to the ground. To perform a deadlift, stand with your feet hip-width apart, with the barbell over the middle of your feet. Bend at the hips and knees to grip the bar with your hands just outside your knees. Keep your back straight, chest up, and shoulders back. Engage your core and drive through your heels to lift the bar by extending your hips and knees. Stand fully upright with the barbell in front of your thighs. Reverse the movement to lower the bar back to the ground, maintaining control throughout.

    Prescribed Sets:

    Perform 4 sets of 3-5 reps with an RPE of 8-9, increasing weight weekly. Focus on proper form, hip drive, and bar path to maximize strength gains.

    Working Sets:

    4

  • Bent-Over Barbell Rows

    Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a barbell with an overhand grip. Bend at the hips while keeping your back flat and core engaged, allowing the barbell to hang at arm's length. Pull the barbell towards your lower chest or upper abdomen by squeezing your back muscles, keeping elbows close to your body. Lower the barbell back to the starting position in a controlled manner. Maintain a slight bend in the knees and avoid rounding your back throughout the movement. Keep your head in line with your spine and avoid using momentum to lift the weight.

    Prescribed Sets:

    Perform 3 sets of 6 reps at RPE 8. Emphasize back engagement and controlled movement to support deadlift lockout.

    Working Sets:

    3

  • Reverse Hyperextension

    Use a specialized machine to work the posterior chain by raising your legs from a prone position.

    Prescribed Sets:

    Perform 3 sets of 10 reps at RPE 7-8 to strengthen posterior chain and improve deadlift stability.

    Working Sets:

    3

  • Farmer's Walk

    Hold heavy dumbbells or farmer's walk handles at sides, walk for distance or time.

    Prescribed Sets:

    Perform 3 sets of 30 meters at RPE 7-8 to develop grip and core endurance supporting deadlift strength.

    Working Sets:

    3

  • Ab Wheel Rollout

    Kneel holding ab wheel, roll forward extending body, roll back contracting abs.

    Prescribed Sets:

    Perform 3 sets of 10 reps at RPE 8, reinforcing core stability for deadlift performance.

    Working Sets:

    3

  • Barbell/Dumbbell Calf Raise

    Perform standing calf raise with a barbell or a dumbell. Use a single leg if using a dumbbell.

    Prescribed Sets:

    Perform 3 sets of 12 reps at RPE 7-8 to support overall stability.

    Working Sets:

    3

  • Plank

    Hold a plank position on your forearms to engage the core muscles.

    Prescribed Sets:

    Hold for 30-45 seconds per set, RPE 7, to enhance core stability for deadlift mechanics.

    Working Sets:

    3

  • Seated Row

    The Seated Row is performed by sitting on a rowing machine or a seated cable row station. Begin by sitting with your feet firmly placed on the footrests and your knees slightly bent. Grasp the handles with an overhand or neutral grip, keeping your back straight and chest up. Pull the handles towards your torso by retracting your shoulder blades and bending your elbows. Keep your elbows close to your body as you pull. Pause briefly when the handles reach your torso, then slowly extend your arms back to the starting position, maintaining control throughout the movement.

    Prescribed Sets:

    Perform 3 sets of 8 reps at RPE 7-8 to support back development and posture.

    Working Sets:

    3

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