Hamstrings · Barbell

Stiff-Legged Deadlift

Near-straight legs put all the load on your hamstrings.

Stiff-Legged Deadlift exercise demonstration
HamstringsSecondary: GlutesBarbell

How to do it

  1. Hold the barbell at your thighs, feet hip-width, legs nearly straight.
  2. Push your hips back and lower the bar down your legs.
  3. Go until you feel a deep hamstring stretch, back flat.
  4. Drive your hips forward to stand tall.

The one cue that matters

Keep the bar close to your legs and let your hips travel back, not down.

Muscles worked

The Stiff-Legged Deadlift 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 Stiff-Legged Deadlift work?

The Stiff-Legged Deadlift 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.

How many sets and reps of Stiff-Legged Deadlift?

For most lifters 3 to 4 working sets. Pick the rep range that fits your goal and progress the load when the top of the range feels owned.

Related exercises

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