Equipped Deadlift
BarbellStrength
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The equipped deadlift is a strength-focused variation of the conventional deadlift performed with supportive gear like a deadlift suit and belt to allow heavier loads, primarily targeting the glutes for maximal power development. It secondarily engages the back muscles for stability and overall posterior chain strength. Lifters benefit from this exercise through enhanced squat and deadlift performance, making it ideal for powerlifters aiming to peak in equipped competitions using a barbell.
How to Perform Equipped Deadlift
- 1Position feet hip-width apart under the barbell, toes pointed slightly out, shins touching the bar.
- 2Squat down, grip the bar just outside your legs (overhand or mixed grip), shoulders over the bar, back flat.
- 3Engage lats by pulling slack out of the bar, brace core tightly, keep head neutral looking forward.
- 4Inhale deeply to brace, then drive through heels to lift the bar by extending knees and hips simultaneously.
- 5Exhale as you lock out hips at the top, squeezing glutes and standing tall without leaning back.
- 6Inhale to lower the bar controlled back to the floor, maintaining flat back and tension throughout.
- 7Key form tips: Keep bar close to body—avoid rounding back or drifting forward; use equipped gear (belt, straps, suit) only after mastering raw form; common mistakes include jerking the bar off floor or hyperextending at lockout.
