By: Doberman Dan

Deadlifting can be tough, no doubt about it. But, once you get used to it you won't want to stop because it gives results!

The back is one of the main areas to focus on for increasing overall body mass (legs are the other) and no other exercise HITs all areas of the back like deadlifts; from the traps down to the lower erectors.

Exercises To Help Build A Big, Strong Back

Barbell Deadlift:

I only advise deadlifting once every 10 to 14 days. When you're just starting the exercise, you can deadlift every 7 days. Go SLOW when you start doing deadlift. Don't get too anxious and make big weight jumps. Make sure you have the form down so you don't even have to think about it.

Never jerk the deadlift. Your arms must not have any slack and should be held tight. And there's no need to do a shrug or bend the arms at the top of a deadlift. Don't overextend your back at the top by leaning back too far. Stand erect, period. Keep your back flat and NEVER round your lower back during a deadlift. I also recommend using a lifting belt.

Click Image To Enlarge.
Barbell Deadlift.

Video Guide: Windows Media

Warm up thoroughly with a light weight. This also helps you practice your technique in perfect form. Don't go lower than 6 reps unless you are going to enter a powerlifting competition.

Chins:

An AWESOME back builder. When you can do 10 with your bodyweight, strap extra weight around you. NEVER over stretch in the bottom and let your shoulders rotate! You are asking for a shoulder injury if you do. Always be under control and don't try and explode in the bottom - squeeze it up. Don't go below 6 on these.

Click Image To Enlarge.
Chin-Ups.

Video Guide: Windows Media - MPEG - Video iPod

One Arm Dumbbell Rows:

Do these with both your fists parallel and perpendicular to the body. Again, don't jerk these, squeeeeeeezzzzze. Don't rotate your trunk either. I really like these because with a knee up on the bench, there is no stress on the low back. Also, I found these to be second to deadlifts for thickness.

Click Image To Enlarge.
One Arm Dumbbell Rows.

Video Guide: Windows Media - Real Player

Sample Back Specialization Routine:

• Deadlifts - warmups, 3 to 5 sets of 6 to 10 reps.
• Chins - 2 to 3 sets of 6 to 10 reps.
• One Arm Dumbbell Rows - 2 to 3 sets of 6 to 12 reps.

Click Here For A Printable Log Of Back Specialization Routine.

dan@griffindirectmarketing.com

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