Exercise / 112Animation available
Pause Deadlift demonstration

Illustration by RepDB

Strength / Barbell

Pause Deadlift

A deadlift variation with a deliberate pause just below the knees to build strength off the floor.

Equipment

Barbell

Experience

advanced

Movement

compound

Primary musclesSecondary muscles

Traps · Quads

Instructions

  1. 01

    Set up for a conventional deadlift.

  2. 02

    Pull the bar off the floor and pause when it passes your knees.

  3. 03

    Hold for 2–3 seconds, then complete the lift.

  4. 04

    Lower under control.

  5. 05

    Repeat.

Choose a load and range you can control. These instructions are general guidance, not a substitute for individual coaching.