Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift: How-to, Tips & More

The Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift is a beginner compound exercise for your hamstrings. You do it with dumbbells. It is a good fit when your goal is both strength and muscle growth.

Besides the hamstrings, it also works your glutes and lower back, so it fits well in a session that trains those muscles together.

Muscles worked

Hamstrings muscle

Hamstrings

Primary

Glutes muscle

Glutes

Secondary

Lower back muscle

Lower back

Secondary

How to do the Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift

  1. Stand holding dumbbells in front of your thighs.
  2. Soften your knees and push your hips back.
  3. Lower the dumbbells along your legs until you feel a stretch in your hamstrings.
  4. Drive your hips forward to stand.

Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift tips

  • Keep the dumbbells close to your legs.

Sets and reps

Most lifters do well with 6 to 12 reps per set, and 6 to 12 reps is where this exercise tends to work best. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve on every set, and add weight once you can complete all your sets at the top of the range. It also works well in a superset with an exercise for the opposite muscles.

Equipment

Dumbbells

Type

Compound

Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift alternatives

More hamstrings exercises

Frequently asked questions

What muscles does the Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift work?

The Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift mainly works your hamstrings, with help from your glutes and lower back.

How many sets and reps should I do?

A good starting point is 6 to 12 reps per set, and many lifters get the best results between 6 to 12 reps. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve.

Is the Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift good for beginners?

Yes. The Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift is considered beginner and is a good choice if you are new to training. Start light and focus on form.

What equipment do I need for the Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift?

You need dumbbells.

Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift demonstration

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