Hamstrings · Dumbbell

Single Dumbbell Single-Leg RDL

One dumbbell, one leg, total posterior-chain control.

HamstringsSecondary: GlutesDumbbell

How to do it

  1. Hold a dumbbell in the hand opposite your standing leg.
  2. Soften the standing knee and hinge at the hip.
  3. Lower the dumbbell as your free leg lifts straight behind you.
  4. Drive the hip forward to stand tall, then finish reps and switch.

The one cue that matters

Keep your hips square to the floor. Don't let the lifting leg's hip rotate open.

Muscles worked

The Single Dumbbell Single-Leg RDL is a Hamstrings-first movement, with Glutes working as the supporting cast. Track it consistently and you'll see exactly how it feeds your hamstrings volume for the week.

FAQ

What muscles does the Single Dumbbell Single-Leg RDL work?

The Single Dumbbell Single-Leg RDL primarily works the Hamstrings with Glutes assisting.

How heavy should I go?

Pick a weight where you finish each set with 1 to 2 clean reps left in the tank. Own the top of your rep range before adding weight.

One side at a time?

Yes, it's a unilateral movement. Start with your weaker side and match the reps with your stronger side so no side gets ahead.

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