Deadlift Focus

(Week 6, Strength Forge)
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Day Overview

This session centers on the deadlift, emphasizing maximal strength development with accessory work to reinforce posterior chain and grip. The deadlift is performed at high intensity with near-max loads, while accessories target weak points such as hamstrings, glutes, and grip strength. The volume is kept moderate to allow recovery and technique refinement.

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 at an RPE of 9. Focus on perfect form, bar speed, and controlled descent. Increase weight gradually each week, ensuring proper technique is maintained. Rest 3-4 minutes between sets.

    Working Sets:

    4

  • Romanian Deadlift

    Focus on hamstring engagement by lowering the barbell with a slight knee bend while keeping the back straight.

    Prescribed Sets:

    Perform 3 sets of 6-8 reps with an RPE of 8-9. Emphasize hip hinge and hamstring stretch to strengthen posterior chain and improve deadlift lockout.

    Working Sets:

    3

  • Pull-Ups

    To perform a pull-up, start by hanging from a pull-up bar with your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, palms facing away from you. Engage your core and pull your body upward until your chin is above the bar. Keep your elbows close to your body and avoid swinging or using momentum. Lower yourself back to the starting position with control. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

    Prescribed Sets:

    Perform 3 sets of 8-10 reps at an RPE of 8. Use assistance to maintain proper form and avoid failure early, focusing on full range of motion.

    Working Sets:

    3

  • 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 8-10 reps with an RPE of 8. Keep back flat and pull towards lower chest to reinforce mid-back strength.

    Working Sets:

    3

  • Farmer's Walk

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

    Prescribed Sets:

    Walk for 30-40 meters per set, focusing on grip and core stability, RPE 8. This enhances grip strength and core endurance.

    Working Sets:

    3

  • Back Extension

    Perform a back extension to strengthen the lower back and glutes.

    Prescribed Sets:

    Perform 3 sets of 12-15 reps at RPE 7-8, emphasizing posterior chain endurance.

    Working Sets:

    3

  • Ab Wheel Rollout

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

    Prescribed Sets:

    Perform 3 sets of 10-12 reps with an RPE of 8, reinforcing core stability essential for deadlift performance.

    Working Sets:

    3

  • Hanging Leg Raises

    To perform Hanging Leg Raises, find a pull-up bar or any sturdy overhead bar. Grip the bar with an overhand grip, hands shoulder-width apart. Hang from the bar with your arms fully extended and your legs straight. Engage your core and, keeping your legs straight, lift them up in front of you until they are parallel to the ground or higher, if possible. Slowly lower your legs back to the starting position, maintaining control throughout the movement. Avoid swinging or using momentum to lift your legs.

    Prescribed Sets:

    Perform 3 sets of 12-15 reps at RPE 7-8, targeting core and hip flexors to support deadlift mechanics.

    Working Sets:

    3

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