QUICK TIP
Work on the deficit deadlift for four weeks,
then retest your deadlift.
Standing on a raised surface to deadlift forces you to drop your hips lower and thereby recruit your quads more to begin
the lift. This improves your speed off the floor on the conventional deadlift and can help you break a plateau.
HOW TO DO IT DEFICIT DEADLIFT
1 STAND ON A MAT OR PLATE
(as shown) that’s one to two inches thick and prepare to deadlift as usual. Note that the bar remains on the floor and is not raised.
2 DROP YOUR HIPS
as you begin the pull. You’ll notice that the elevation makes you get lower in order to begin pulling the bar effectively. Keep your lower back flat as you stand up to lockout.
CAUTION: The deficit deadlift can kill your back if you’re not warmed up. Stretch your hips and hamstrings beforehand to improve your range of motion.
