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Hamstrings and glutes ยท Hip hinge

Romanian Deadlift

A compound hip hinge exercise for the hamstrings and glutes, done with a barbell. It also works the lower back and forearms.

Barbell Compound Reps and weight Also called: RDL, bb rdl
Illustrations: Everkinetic, CC BY-SA 4.0 (licence)

Muscles worked

Primary

Hamstrings and Glutes

Do most of the work.

Secondary

Lower back and Forearms

Help during each rep.

  • HamstringsBack of the thighsPrimary
  • GlutesHips and seatPrimary
  • Lower backSpinal erectorsSecondary
  • ForearmsGrip and wristsSecondary

How to do it

  1. Set up the bar. Load it evenly on both sides, use collars, and start with a weight you can move with good form.
  2. Push the hips back, keep the back flat and the bar close.
  3. Shins stay near vertical; feel the stretch in the hamstrings.
  4. Stand up by driving the hips forward and squeezing the glutes.
  5. Control every rep. Breathe out through the hardest part and stop the set when your form changes.

Common mistakes

  • Rounding the back. Keep the back flat; lower the weight until you can.
  • Squatting the weight. Push the hips back and keep the shins near vertical: it is a hip movement.
  • Letting the weight drift away. Keep the bar or weight close to the legs the whole way.

Barbell busy? Try one of these

General guidance, not medical advice. If a movement hurts, stop and ask a qualified coach or physio.