Cable Stiff-leg Deadlift

Description:

The Cable Stiff-leg Deadlift is a posterior chain exercise that targets the hamstrings along with the glutes and lower back.

Benefits:

  • Builds strength and size in the hamstrings.
  • Develops the glutes and posterior chain.
  • Supports sprinting, jumping, and deadlift strength.
  • Helps protect the knees and lower back.
  • Improves hip hinge or knee flexion strength.

Profile:

Equipment:Cable Machine
Type:Strength Training Machine
Resistance Type:Cable
Level:Intermediate

Muscles:

Primary Muscles
  • Hamstrings
Secondary Muscles
  • Gluteus Maximus
  • Erector Spinae

Classification:

Mechanics:Compound
Force:Pull
Utility:Basic

Instructions:

  1. Hold the weight in front of your thighs and stand tall with a slight bend in your knees.
  2. Hinge at the hips, pushing your glutes back and lowering the weight along your legs.
  3. Keep your back flat and lower until you feel a stretch in the hamstrings.
  4. Drive your hips forward to stand back up, squeezing your glutes.
  5. Repeat for the desired reps.

Common Mistakes:

  • Rounding the lower back on hinge movements.
  • Using momentum or bouncing.
  • Cutting the range of motion short.
  • Hyperextending the lower back at the top.
  • Going too heavy at the expense of form.

Variations:

  • Lever Selectorized Lying Leg Curl
  • Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift
  • Barbell Good-morning
  • Glute-Ham Raise

Safety Tips:

  • Keep the back flat and core braced on hinge movements.
  • Control the weight in both directions.
  • Use a full but pain free range of motion.
  • Stop if you feel lower back or knee pain.

Additional Information:

The Romanian and stiff leg deadlifts are hip hinges that build the hamstrings and glutes through a long stretch. Keep the bar close and the back flat.

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