Deadlifts (bent knee)

The bent-knee deadlift consists of grasping a weight on the floor and assuming a standing position, finishing with the weight hanging at arm's length at about mid-thigh level (one of the three powerlifts: bench press, squat, dead lift). It is listed under hamstrings with the erector spinae as the primary muscle. Proper form is critical (squats, deadlifts, bench press) — improper form, usually from using resistances beyond capability, places undue stress on the lower back. Maintain the back in its natural curves and use your legs when lifting heavy objects. Listed as an advanced low-back exercise. A weightlifting belt is indicated for heavy deadlifts.

• Primary Muscles: Erector Spinae.
• Secondary Muscles: Gluteus Maximus, Upper Hamstrings, Quadriceps.
• One of the three powerlifts; bent-knee version.
• Proper form essential; heavy loads warrant a belt.

• erector-spinae — primary mover.
• gluteus-maximus / hamstrings / quadriceps — secondary.
• safe-lifting-mechanics — natural-curve, use-your-legs technique.
• weightlifting-belt-safety-concerns — for heavy lifts.
• stiff-legged-deadlift — the straight-leg hamstring variation.