Deadlift Development

(Week 3, Starter Powerlift Progression)
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Day Overview

This day targets deadlift strength with a focus on proper technique and posterior chain engagement. Main lifts are performed at high intensity, supported by accessory work to strengthen the back, hamstrings, and grip.

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 80-85% of 1RM with an RPE of 8-9, focusing on a neutral spine and explosive hip drive. Rest 3 minutes between sets to maximize strength development.

    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 6-8 reps with an RPE of 7-8, maintaining a flat back and pulling towards the lower ribcage to strengthen the mid-back supporting deadlifts.

    Working Sets:

    3

  • 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 8 reps at an RPE of 7, focusing on hip hinge and hamstring stretch to improve posterior chain flexibility and strength.

    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 10-12 reps with an RPE of 6-7, engaging the core to support spinal stability during heavy pulls.

    Working Sets:

    3

  • Farmer’s Walks

    Stand upright with a heavy weight in each hand, such as dumbbells, kettlebells, or specialized farmer’s walk handles. Keep your shoulders back and chest up, engaging your core to maintain stability. Walk forward in a straight line for a specified distance or time, ensuring your steps are controlled and your posture remains upright throughout. Focus on maintaining a steady pace, avoiding leaning or twisting, and breathing evenly. To finish, carefully set down the weights and rest.

    Prescribed Sets:

    Walk for 30 seconds per set at a challenging weight, focusing on grip and core stability to support deadlift strength.

    Working Sets:

    3

  • Superman

    Lie face down, arms and legs extended, lift arms, chest, and legs off floor.

    Prescribed Sets:

    Hold for 20-30 seconds per set with an RPE of 6, emphasizing lower back activation to reinforce posterior chain endurance.

    Working Sets:

    3

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