Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift

Dumbbell Romanian deadlift for the hamstrings and glutes.

How to do it

  1. Stand tall with feet hip-width apart and dumbbells in front of your thighs.
  2. Pull your shoulder blades together and lift your chest.
  3. Soften the knees slightly and keep that angle.
  4. Push your hips back, sliding the dumbbells down your legs.
  5. Lower until you feel a stretch in the hamstrings, keeping the back straight.
  6. Drive the hips forward and return to standing, squeezing the glutes.

Key technique cue

Dumbbells at the thighs, hips back, soft knees, lower to a stretch, flat back.

Common mistakes

  • Rounding the back
  • Squatting instead of pushing the hips back
  • Dumbbells drifting away from the legs
  • Overextending the lower back at the top

Benefits

  • Hamstring and glute strength
  • Hip-hinge skill
  • Stronger back muscles

Progression: from easier to harder

  1. Step 1 You are here
  2. Step 2
  3. Step 3
Full “Romanian deadlift” progression

About the exercise

A foundation hip-hinge: the torso tilts forward as the hips travel back. It loads the hamstrings, glutes and back extensors. Suitable for beginners and anyone learning the deadlift pattern.

Updated

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