An outstanding workout series I photographed over a few days with IFBB Figure Professional Ava Cowan. “Professional” for sure when it comes to Ava!
And be sure to “Like” the Facebook page for our gym shoot location Palm Springs Fitness Center, my favorite gym and to keep up with my posting over there as Social Media Manager. It helps me a lot and I promise to make it fun! Thanks!
Deadlifts done right with IFBB Professional Figure Competitor Ava Cowan…
Preparation:
With feet flat beneath bar, squat down and grasp bar with shoulder width or slightly wider overhand or mixed grip. Start with light weight to not only warm up but to determine what you are capable of lifting.
The addition of wrist straps can great improve your ability to perform multiple reps as well as more weight. If no straps are used, a mixed grip is a great way to grip the bar.
Start with 2 sets of 15 reps before moving into working weight.
Execution:
Lift bar by extending hips and knees to full extension, keeping the bar close to the body throughout the movement. Keep your back flat throughout the exercise and pull shoulders back being mindful not to round the shoulders. Also, keep knees pointing the same direction as your feet. Return and repeat.
The simplified version of the muscles used are:
The grip strength (finger flexors) and the lower back (erector spinae) work isometrically to keep the bar held in the hands and to keep the spine from rounding.
The gluteus maximus and hamstrings work to extend the hip joint.
The quadriceps work to extend the knee joint.
The adductor magnus works to stabilize the legs.
Core musculature remains braced to stabilize the spine.
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