So You Think You Can Deadlift? (Part 8)

Welcome to the long-awaited follow-up to Matt Wenning’s popular “SYTYCS” series. This time, Matt targets the pull in the same expert fashion that he did with the squat. We brought in loyal elitefts™ customer and amateur strongman competitor Ryan Minney as our training subject.

His form is broken down, analyzed and a thorough plan to improve his deadlift is laid-out.

In part 7, Matt emphasizes the need for incorporating abdominal work throughout the week. He has Ryan demonstrate Roman chairs on the glute-ham raise. This is one of Matt’s favorite exercises because it strengthens the abdominals, including the hip flexors.

In this installment, Matt has Ryan perform Russian curls. This key accessory movement will strengthen Ryan's hamstrings, allowing him to pull in proper position. Watch as Ryan strains during this exercise and how Matt cues him to control the downward phase and spring up with his arms.