Quick building deadlifts

[LadyFenix]

I tried deadlifting for the first time last week. I'm not entirely sure if I'm doing them right because the gym I'm using only has a big bench press machine  and I can't remove the bar to set it on the ground, so the starting point is knee length. However, on my first week, I ended up lifting 160lbs. as my top weight.  I decided to turn it into my set Monday along with a 5k run, so I'm only lifting once a week.  This week, my heaviest weight was 260lbs.  I'm a woman whose 5'4, so this is good right? 

[LadyFenix]

Oh, I also weigh, around 185 for now, so the deadlift was well over my bodyweight.

[Rooks]

Yes.  If it was a true deadlift those weights are very good.  However, with not being able to go below your knees you're more doing Rack Pulls, and I have a feeling, the machine has the bar path locked in place (like a smith machine), so that will aid with the weight a bit.

 

Don't get me wrong, for a first timer to even Rack Pull that much is pretty darn impressive.  However, I'd really recommend switching over to doing dumbbells if you really don't have access to a free barbell (and if not, harass that gym owner to get one!)  

[XSanguinus]

Barbells are fairly affordable on Amazon.  Check Craigslist for weight plates. Deadlift in the comfort of your own bedroom, backyard, basement, whatever.

[LadyFenix]

Yes.  If it was a true deadlift those weights are very good.  However, with not being able to go below your knees you're more doing Rack Pulls, and I have a feeling, the machine has the bar path locked in place (like a smith machine), so that will aid with the weight a bit.

 

Don't get me wrong, for a first timer to even Rack Pull that much is pretty darn impressive.  However, I'd really recommend switching over to doing dumbbells if you really don't have access to a free barbell (and if not, harass that gym owner to get one!)  

So I found a new machine to simulate deadlifts, (still no proper bar at my gym).  Now I'm lifting from mid-calf level.  Are those deadlifts or still rack pulls?

[El Exorcisto]

Get a new gym... A Smith Machine is not a barbell, and leaves out all the really important buscles so you can focus on hurting the bigger but less important ones. Get a bar and plates, or find a proper gym. A gym with only a Smith Machine has no regard for your safety or making you stronger.