Focus: Lying on a bench, hold a dumbbell by the upper head in both hands. Keeping a slight bend in the arms, lower the dumbbell back towards the floor. Engagement should be felt in the lats/upper back. Only go back as far as control in the lift is still felt and start light to get a feel for the movement. Avoid overarching the back to facilitate a greater range of motion; core should remain engaged throughout. Suggested lying on the bench sideways so the upper back is the supported area by the bench (just ensure that bench is secured to prevent tipping over).

Lying DB Pullover on Bench

*Build to a moderate weight; stay the same or build across

Focus: Use a small plate or slant board under toes of each foot. Holding dumbbells in each hand, push the hips back, lowering the dumbbells down the front of the legs until the end ROM is hit (or the low back begins to round out). Straps are allowed to be used so that grip is not a limiting factor for sets. If mobility doesn’t allow for toes to be elevated, perform reps with non-elevated toes.

Elevated Toe Double DB Romanian Deadlift