Deadlift and Posterior Chain
(Week 4, Starter Powerlift Progression)Day Overview
Focus on deadlift strength and posterior chain development, with controlled, high-intensity pulls. Accessories support hamstring, glute, and back strength, essential for deadlift performance and injury prevention.
Exercises
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• 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 85% of your 1RM with an RPE of 8-9. Focus on proper form, bracing, and controlled movement. Rest 3 minutes between sets.
Working Sets:
4
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• 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 6 reps at RPE 8, emphasizing scapular retraction and controlled pull. Rest 90 seconds.
Working Sets:
3
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• Glute Kickback Machine
To perform the glute kickback on the machine, start by adjusting the machine to fit your height. Position yourself facing the machine with your knees on the padded platform and your feet resting on the footrest. Secure your knees under the padded lever. Begin the exercise by extending one leg straight back, keeping your knee slightly bent and your foot flexed. Focus on squeezing your glutes at the top of the movement. Slowly return to the starting position without letting the weight rest completely. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions before switching to the other leg. Maintain a neutral spine throughout the movement and avoid arching your back.
Prescribed Sets:
Perform 3 sets of 8 reps per leg at RPE 7-8, focusing on glute activation and controlled movement. Rest 60 seconds.
Working Sets:
3
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• Back Extension
Perform a back extension to strengthen the lower back and glutes.
Prescribed Sets:
Perform 3 sets of 8 reps at RPE 7-8, emphasizing posterior chain engagement. Rest 60-90 seconds.
Working Sets:
3
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• Ab Wheel Rollout
Kneel holding ab wheel, roll forward extending body, roll back contracting abs.
Prescribed Sets:
Perform 3 sets of 8 reps at RPE 7, maintaining core tightness and controlled extension. Rest 60 seconds.
Working Sets:
3
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• Hanging Leg Raise
Hang from a bar and raise your legs to target your lower abdominals.
Prescribed Sets:
Perform 3 sets of 10 reps at RPE 6-7, focusing on core control and stability. Rest 30 seconds.
Working Sets:
3