Other articles in this series looked at a number of exercises, mainly from the perspective of developing a comprehensive muscle building program. Sometimes we take things for granted, especially when it comes to performing the basic exercises that constitute the core of most bodybuilders' training regimes.

It is useful, therefore, to describe in detail the processes involved in actually doing these exercises. This will help beginners to start out using the correct techniques before moving on to potentially more dangerous heavy weights. If it also helps more experienced lifters to redress some of the little faults that have almost imperceptibly crept in over the years, all the better.

In this article we'll take a close look at the stiff-leg deadlift.

MUSCLES TARGETED: gluteus maximus, semimembranosus, semitendinosus, biceps femoris, erector spinae

STARTING POSITION

Grasp the bar with a closed pronated grip.
Grip should be roughly shoulder width.
Assume a hip width stance with the knees slightly flexed and the toes pointing straight ahead.
Stand erect with the bar touching the front of the thighs and the elbows extended.

DOWNWARD MOVEMENT

Allow the torso to slowly flex forward and the bar to lower to the floor.
Keep the knees slightly flexed and the torso in a flat back position.
Lower the bar until the weights touch the floor.

UPWARD MOVEMENT

Extend the hips and torso.
Keep the knees slightly flexed and the torso in a flat back position.
Repeat or finish set.

Richard Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Exercises to learn more about the issues covered in this article.