The DEADLIFT

Fear of the Deadlift:

Many people fear the deadlift.  Maybe it’s the name - DEADlift?  

I have been told this used to be called the 'Healthlift' but I am not so sure about that being the original name.  A deadlift simply means you are lifting a dead-weight, the dictionary definition (the unrelieved weight of a heavy, motionless mass).  In simple terms the weight is not moving and is fully supported by the ground before being lifted.

Functional:

I've been asked many times when doing a deadlift "Is that a safe exercise?"

People are concerned that it is not safe for the lower back.  On the contrary the Deadlift is probably the best exercise for overall back strength. It teaches you how to keep the lower back strong under load and is a very functional movement.  In fact what could be more functional?  It is just picking something heavy off the floor.  

You may feel the deadlift is purely the preserve of weightlifters with a barbell only.  Don't.  You can use a sandbag, log, rock, backpack, in fact whatever is convenient.  In an emergency you may even need to lift a person using this technique - so it's practical too.

Safety:

Like any activity deadlifts can cause injury if not performed safely without due care and attention.  Please refer to the video for good technique and seek additional advice from a specialist coach or personal trainer if tuition is required.

A few tips: 

• Keep weighty and solid on the heels;
• Keep load close to the body throughout movement;
• Maintain stability in the mid-section throughout;
• Start off with shoulders slightly in front of the load;
• Maintain a neutral spine position (avoid back rounding) throughout the movement;
• Keep the load moving in a straight vertical line.