Exercises · back

Single Dumbbell Stiff-Leg Deadlift

A stiff-legged deadlift variation using a single dumbbell to target the hamstrings and lower back.

backhamstringsdumbbellbeginnercompound

Secondary muscles

gluteslower backerector spinae

How to do it

  1. Stand upright holding a dumbbell with both hands at your thighs.
  2. Keep a slight bend in your knees and your back flat.
  3. Hinge forward at the hips, lowering the dumbbell towards the floor.
  4. Pause at the bottom while feeling a stretch in your hamstrings.
  5. Return to the upright position by driving hips forward.

Form cues

  • Hips back
  • Flat back
  • Feel hamstring stretch
  • No rounding

Common mistakes

  • Rounding back
  • Excessive knee bend
  • Bouncing at bottom

Breathing

Inhale lowering, exhale as you stand back up.

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