Sumo deadlift
A deadlift with a wide stance and hands inside the knees, with a more upright torso and more work for the hips and inner thighs.
- Muscle group: Hamstrings
- Equipment: Barbell
- Difficulty: Advanced
Also known as: Sumo dødløft, Sumo-dødløft
How to do it
- Stand wide with toes turned out and the bar over the middle of your feet; grip inside your knees.
- Push the knees out, brace and pull the slack out of the bar with a flat back.
- Push the floor apart and stand tall, then lower the bar the same way under control.
Common mistakes
- Knees caving in as the bar leaves the floor.
- Hips shooting up first so it turns into a stiff-legged pull.
Alternatives
Watch a video demonstration on YouTube
“How To Correctly Perform A Sumo Deadlift” by PureGym (opens YouTube)
Log this exercise in FitScore
See your previous sets while you train, get a suggested next load and personal records when you beat your best.
Free to start – no card needed.
General technique guidance, not individual advice. Stop if something hurts and talk to a professional about injuries.