Reeves Deadlift

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Reeves Deadlift.

HardGlutesHamstrings

About this exercise

The Reeves Deadlift, popularized by bodybuilding legend Steve Reeves, is a conventional deadlift variation where you grip the weight plates directly instead of the bar. This unique grip forces the shoulders back and opens the chest, producing an upright posture that heavily engages the upper back, traps, and posterior chain simultaneously. It is an advanced, technical lift requiring significant grip strength and mobility.

How to Perform

Load a barbell with large-diameter plates and position it over your mid-foot
Stand with feet hip-width apart and hinge at the hips to reach down to the plates
Grip the inside edges of the weight plates directly with both hands, fingers pointing down
Set your back flat, chest up, and shoulders retracted before initiating the pull
Drive through your heels and extend your hips and knees simultaneously to lift the bar
Keep the bar close to your body as you stand tall to lockout
Squeeze your glutes at the top and pause briefly
Lower the bar back to the floor under control by hinging at the hips, maintaining a neutral spine

Muscle Activation

Primary

GlutesHamstringsLower back

Secondary

QuadricepsInner forearmTrapeziusMiddle back

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Reeves Deadlift

The Reeves Deadlift is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.

Reeves Deadlift

About this exercise

How to Perform

Muscle Activation

Common Mistakes

About the Reeves Deadlift

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