05/07/2026
Romanian Deadlift (RDL) basics—because the details matter. 👇
In this clip, Dr. Cassleman demonstrates the Romanian Deadlift while Coach Alarie provides guidance on proper form. This movement is one of the most effective ways to build strength in your glutes and hamstrings—when done correctly.
Set-up
• Feet hip-width apart
• Weight (bar or dumbbells) close to the thighs
• Soft bend in the knees (this is not a squat)
• Chest up, shoulders set down and back
• Core braced before you move
Descent (lowering)
• Push the hips back
• Keep the bar close to your legs
• Maintain a neutral spine
• Keep shins mostly vertical
• Lower until you feel a stretch in your hamstrings
• Don’t chase the floor if your back starts to round
Bottom position
• Hips back, back flat
• Knees slightly bent
• Weight balanced through midfoot/heels
• Hamstrings loaded
Ascent (coming up)
• Drive the hips forward
• Squeeze the glutes to stand tall
• Keep the bar close
• Avoid leaning back at the top
• Finish tall with hips and knees fully extended
Common mistakes to avoid
• Rounding the back → reduce range + brace
• Turning it into a squat → hips go back, not down
• Letting the weight drift forward → keep it close
• Locking the knees → keep them soft
• Overextending at the top → ribs down, glutes engaged
Quick cue to remember:
Soft knees → hips back → bar close → flat back → feel hamstrings → drive through.
Save this for your next lift!