Deadlift Single-Leg (Trap Bar)
A single-leg dominant pulling movement developing unilateral strength, balance, and stability in the posterior chain.
Instructions
- Stand in the center of the trap bar with feet hip-width apart.
- Grip both handles with a neutral grip.
- Shift your weight to one leg and lift the other leg slightly off the ground.
- Keeping your torso upright, hinge forward at the hips while extending your non-standing leg behind you for balance.
- Lower the bar by pushing your hip back, maintaining a neutral spine.
- Stop when your torso is nearly parallel to the ground.
- Drive through your standing leg’s heel to return to standing.
- Complete all reps on one side before switching legs.
Tips
- This movement requires significant balance and core stability.
- Keep your standing knee slightly bent for improved stability.
- The non-standing leg extends behind you for counterbalance.
- Maintain a neutral spine throughout; avoid excessive rotation.
- This exercise builds exceptional unilateral strength and prevents imbalances.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | |||
| Gain strength | 5 | 5 reps | 50 kg | 45 kg |
| Build muscle | 5 | 8 reps | 45 kg | 40 kg |
| Build endurance | 5 | 10 reps | 35 kg | 30 kg |
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