RM-Loading Caution (Hamstring Curl & Stiff-Leg Deadlift)

Some exercises require care in using RM loading due to possible injury (e.g., hamstring curl, stiff-leg deadlift exercises). The development of a particular feature of muscular performance (absolute strength, etc.) is directly related to the load used, but for these exercises the near-maximal RM loads needed to push that feature carry elevated injury risk.

Related technique cautions: people often avoid stiff-legged deadlifts because they perform the hip-extension movement incorrectly, using too much lower-back movement (and rotation). The stiff-legged deadlift is nonetheless better than good mornings. For the incline leg curl, beware of knee hyperextension; the seated leg curl is a good substitute for the prone leg curl for those with lower-back problems.

• Use care with RM loading on the hamstring curl and stiff-leg deadlift due to injury risk.
• Stiff-leg deadlift errors usually come from excess lower-back movement/rotation.
• Stiff-legged deadlift is preferred over good mornings.
• Incline leg curl: beware knee hyperextension.
• Seated leg curl substitutes for prone leg curl for those with lower-back problems.

• repetition-maximum — the RM loading concept.
• stiff-legged-deadlift / leg-curl — the cautioned exercises.
• hamstrings — the muscle group loaded.
• proper-form — proper form as injury prevention.
• spotting — spotting heavy/failure sets.