Deadlift Vs. Bent-over Barbell Rows

Deadlifts and bent-over barbell rows are weightlifting exercises that target different muscles in your body; though they may look similar to the untrained eye, they are performed from different positions. Both can strengthen your muscles and increase your muscle mass; the more muscle mass you have, the higher your metabolism is and thus the more calories your body burns. Consult your doctor before beginning any new exercise routine.

Muscles That Deadlifts Target

Deadlifts target your hamstrings, gluteus maximus, erector spinae and adductor magnus muscles, according to the ExRx website. The hamstring is a four-headed muscle located on the back of your thigh; the erector spinae is a three-headed muscle in your back that runs the length of your spine; the gluteus maximus is the muscle that forms your butt; adductor magnus is a small muscle on your inner thigh.

Muscles That Bent-Over Barbell Rows Target

Where deadlifts mostly target the muscles in your butt and thighs, bent-over barbell rows target several muscles in your back. These include the trapezius, rhomboids, latissimus dorsi, teres major and minor, posterior deltoid and infraspinatus, ExRx reports. It also targets two muscles in your arm, the brachialis and brachioradialis, and the pectoralis major in your chest.

How to Do Deadlifts

Deadlifts are generally done using a barbell, though you can also use dumbbells or a weighted bar. Grasp a barbell with your hands shoulder-width apart with an overhand grip. Stand tall, holding the barbell against your body; do not lock your knees. With arms straight, start lowering the barbell toward the floor by bending from your waist and hips. Do not squat or bend your knees. Keep your back and arms straight throughout the move. Lower the barbell beyond your knees, then raise back up. Repeat 10 to 20 times and do three sets.

How to Do Bent-Over Barbell Rows

Stand in front of a barbell. Grasp it with an overhand grip, placing your hands shoulder width apart or wider. Bend your knees slightly and bent forward slightly at the waist, holding your back straight. Pull the barbell to your waist by bending your elbows. Bring your elbows up and backward and do not let them splay out to the sides. Lower the barbell close to floor and repeat. Do 10 to 20 repetitions, three sets total.