A primary objective of exercise is to make our body efficient at carrying out tasks in day to day life.  Every now and then, life puts us in a situation where we must lift heavy objects. A non-exercising person runs the risk of straining his lower back. Babying the back by avoiding these tasks is not an option. Luckily a basic and functional exercise called the Deadlift teaches you the correct way to lift heavy objects and prepares the body’s neuromuscular system to confidently handle loads in life without compressing the spinal discs.

An anti-aging lifestyle where you will move without a second thought needs a strong posterior chain, this most influential group of muscles are the muscles of the backside of the body. The Deadlift builds a strong posterior chain by working in unison the erector spinae (muscle that keeps the spine erect), gluteus, maximus and hamstrings.

Deadlifts also allow your joints to be less fragile and keeps your core strong. It is a great exercise for all and is not limited by age or gender. A good trainer can teach you how to deadlift the right way. Here are a few pointers:

• Place your feet hip-width apart beneath the loaded barbell.
• Bend your knees and hinge at your hips (you bend forward keeping the back straight)
• Grab the bar and stand up with it until your shoulders, hips, and knees are locked. Your arms will stay straight throughout the lift.
• Lower the weight toward the floor keeping the lower and upper back straight all through.

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LATA RAJAN

Sr. Faculty & Sr. Fitness Counsellor