Exercise Library / Legs

Romanian Deadlifts

How to do the Romanian Deadlifts with proper form, and the muscles it works.

Muscle group
Legs
Primary muscles
Hamstrings
Secondary muscles
Calves, glutes and lower back
Equipment
Barbell
Type
Compound
Level
Intermediate

Video: “How To Romanian Deadlift: Perfect RDL Form Tutorial” by Coach Jazz on YouTube.

How to do the Romanian Deadlifts

  1. Put a barbell in front of you on the ground and grab it using a pronated (palms facing down) grip that a little wider than shoulder width. Tip: Depending on the weight used, you may need wrist wraps to perform the exercise and also a raised platform in order to allow for better range of motion.
  2. Bend the knees slightly and keep the shins vertical, hips back and back straight. This will be your starting position.
  3. Keeping your back and arms completely straight at all times, use your hips to lift the bar as you exhale. Tip: The movement should not be fast but steady and under control.
  4. Once you are standing completely straight up, lower the bar by pushing the hips back, only slightly bending the knees, unlike when squatting. Tip: Take a deep breath at the start of the movement and keep your chest up. Hold your breath as you lower and exhale as you complete the movement.
  5. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Muscles worked

The Romanian Deadlifts mainly works your hamstrings, with help from your calves, glutes and lower back.

Romanian Deadlifts start and finish positions

Romanian Deadlifts: Starting position
Starting position
Romanian Deadlifts: Ending position
Ending position

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