Strength Starts with Smart Movement
Romanian Deadlifts (RDLs) are a brilliant exercise for building strength in your legs, hips, and back — but only if your technique is right. Whether you’re lifting at home, in the gym, or working with a coach, good form keeps you safe and helps you get the most out of every rep.
At The Training Gyms, we teach this movement to people of all ages and experience levels. In our personal training in Northampton, RDLs are often one of the first barbell movements we introduce because they’re simple, low-risk, and highly effective.
3 Cues to Improve Your RDL Form
If you’ve never done an RDL before (or you’ve done it but weren’t sure you were doing it right), these three simple coaching tips can help. They’re the same cues our trainers use every day in sessions — and they work.
1️⃣ Bar Over Your Feet
Start with the bar directly above the middle of your foot. This sets you up for balance and helps protect your lower back as you hinge.
2️⃣ Shoulders Rolled Back
Roll your shoulders gently back and down before you begin. This keeps your upper body stable and your back in a safe position.
3️⃣ Keep the Bar Close
As you lower the bar, it should stay close to your legs — even brushing against them slightly. This small detail makes a big difference in maintaining control and reducing strain.
Why We Teach RDLs in Northampton and Beyond
Across all five of our gyms, RDLs are a favourite for good reason — they’re easy to learn, tough in a good way, and deliver real results. In our personal training in Northampton, members often say this is one of the first exercises that helps them feel truly “in control” of a lift.
From people recovering from back tightness to those training for strength or posture improvements, RDLs are a trusted part of our programming.
One member told us, “I’d never touched a barbell before, but learning RDLs this way made it feel safe and achievable.”
Designed for Real People, Not Just Lifters
The best part about RDLs? You don’t need to be a “gym person” to benefit from them. We use them in our personal training in Northampton and every other location because they help real people move better in everyday life — whether that’s lifting shopping bags or standing with better posture at work.
It’s not about lifting heavy. It’s about building control, confidence, and strength in a way that fits your level.
Want to Train Smarter, Not Harder?
If you’re unsure about your lifting form, or you’d like some help getting started, our personal trainers are here to guide you. Whether you’re in Northampton or one of our other locations, we’ll make sure you feel safe, supported, and successful from day one.
👉 Watch more coaching tips and movement breakdowns on our YouTube Channel
