Deadlift Not Feeling Right? Check Your Hips

A subtle hip shift during deadlifts can throw off your form and progress. Here’s how to spot it and fix it.

You might not notice it at first, but if your hips are shifting to one side during deadlifts, that imbalance can stall your lifts or lead to overuse injuries. A hip shift usually points to a deeper issue. Maybe a strength imbalance, a mobility restriction, or a coordination breakdown in your setup.

The first step is awareness. Record your lifts from behind or at a slight rear angle and watch for any lateral movement during the pull. If you see one side taking over, it could be due to a dominant leg, tight hip flexors, or poor core engagement.

To fix it, work on single-leg strength, core stability, and even out your positioning with tempo deadlifts and paused reps. Addressing the root cause early keeps you moving safely and helps your deadlift stay smooth and symmetrical.

A better pull starts with balance. Train your body to move evenly under load, and your numbers will follow.

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