I wanted to share my insights on the best deadlift accessories to help you build maximum strength and improve your deadlift performance. I've ranked these accessories into five tiers based on specific criteria: their ability to address weaknesses or imbalances, direct translation to deadlifting, and practicality in terms of equipment setup and fatigue levels.
First on my list, and one I regard highly, is the barbell back squat. It’s an essential exercise that closely mimics the deadlift, effectively building strength in the posterior chain and legs. Barbell back squats address common weaknesses such as quad strength and maintain a lower sympathetic fatigue compared to the deadlift itself. This makes it my top recommendation for anyone serious about enhancing their deadlift.
Another crucial accessory is the snatch grip deadlift. This exercise targets the upper back, helping to maintain integrity and prevent caving over during heavy lifts. It also offers lower sympathetic fatigue, making it a fantastic addition to any training program. Combined with leg presses, which build leg strength without the high fatigue of axial loading, you have a potent combination that balances upper and lower body development.
Lastly, pause deadlifts are an excellent tool to refine your technique and address specific sticking points. By pausing at various points, you can identify and strengthen weak areas in your lift, ensuring smoother and more powerful movements. This exercise, along with deficit deadlifts and Romanian deadlifts, falls into the category of highly effective accessories that can significantly enhance your deadlift when programmed correctly.
I hope you walked away with a few tips to help increase your Deadlift! You'll have to watch my newest YT video below to get my complete breakdown, and to see what my last place accessory is!
As always, Lift Heavy and Be Kind
- Mitchell Hooper