Romanian deadlifts (RDLs) are an exercise that targets the muscles in the posterior chain, including the lower back, glutes, and hamstrings. To perform RDLs, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Hold a barbell with an overhand grip, hands shoulder-width apart, and palms facing down. Keeping your back straight and your core engaged, slowly hinge forward at the hips, lowering the barbell towards the ground. Keep the barbell close to your shins as you lower it, and stop when you feel a stretch in your hamstrings. Slowly raise your torso back up to the starting position, squeezing your glutes and hamstrings at the top of the movement, and repeat for the desired number of reps.
In CrossFit, RDLs are often used as a strength-building exercise or as part of a high-intensity workout that includes other weightlifting movements or bodyweight exercises. The weight of the barbell can be adjusted to increase or decrease the difficulty of the exercise, and the number of reps and sets can be modified to suit different fitness levels. Proper form and technique are important to prevent injury, and a qualified coach can provide instruction and guidance to ensure safe and effective execution.
