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Exercise · Hamstrings

Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift guide

The Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift is a intermediate-level compound dumbbell exercise that primarily targets the Hamstrings. Set up with a braced, stable base, move through a full range of motion under control, and progressively add weight or reps over time to keep getting stronger.

TargetHamstrings
SecondaryHamstrings
EquipmentDumbbell
MechanicsCompound
ForcePush/Pull
LevelIntermediate

What muscles does the single-leg romanian deadlift work?

The Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift primarily trains the Hamstrings, recruiting the surrounding hamstrings musculature and supporting muscles as a compound lift. Train it as part of a balanced hamstrings routine.

How do you do the single-leg romanian deadlift?

To do the Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift: set up at the dumbbell with a stable, braced position — feet planted and core tight; take a grip or stance that lets your hamstrings drive the movement through its full range of motion; lower under control, then drive back to the start, keeping tension on the hamstrings; avoid momentum, breathe through each rep, and stop 1–2 reps short of failure on most working sets.

  1. Set up at the dumbbell with a stable, braced position — feet planted and core tight.
  2. Take a grip or stance that lets your hamstrings drive the movement through its full range of motion.
  3. Lower under control, then drive back to the start, keeping tension on the hamstrings.
  4. Avoid momentum, breathe through each rep, and stop 1–2 reps short of failure on most working sets.

What are the most common single-leg romanian deadlift mistakes?

  • Using momentum or bouncing instead of controlled tension.
  • Cutting the range of motion short to move more weight.
  • Adding load before the current weight is clean for every rep.

Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift alternatives

Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift FAQ.

What muscles does the Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift work?

The Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift primarily targets the Hamstrings, training the Hamstrings as the main muscle group, along with supporting muscles as a compound movement.

Is the Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift a compound or isolation exercise?

The Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift is a compound exercise — it works multiple muscles and joints at once, so you can load it heavily.

What equipment do I need for the Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift?

You need a dumbbell. Difficulty is rated intermediate.

What are good alternatives to the Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift?

Good hamstrings alternatives include Romanian Deadlift, Lying Leg Curl, Seated Leg Curl.

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