Romanian Deadlift Single-Leg (Trap Bar)

Level
intermediate
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
trap bar
Category
strength
Secondary Muscles

A single-leg hip-hinging movement emphasizing hamstring and glute activation while building balance and core stability.

Instructions

  1. Stand in the center of the trap bar with feet hip-width apart.
  2. Grip both handles with a neutral grip.
  3. Shift your weight to one leg and lift the other leg slightly off the ground.
  4. Maintain a slight knee bend in your standing leg.
  5. Hinge forward at the hips while extending your non-standing leg behind you for counterbalance.
  6. Lower the bar by pushing your hip back, feeling a stretch in your hamstring.
  7. Drive your hip forward to return to standing.
  8. Complete all reps on one side before switching legs.

Tips

  • This movement emphasizes the hip hinge and posterior chain stretch.
  • Keep your standing knee slightly bent throughout for stability.
  • Extend your non-standing leg behind you to maintain balance.
  • Maintain a neutral spine and avoid excessive forward lean.
  • This exercise improves single-leg strength and addresses strength 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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