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Dumbbell B-Stance Romanian Deadlift

Intermediate
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A unilateral hip hinge using dumbbells in a staggered B-stance that targets hamstrings and glutes for posterior chain strength and stability; bridges bilateral RDL to single-leg variations.

About Exercise

Equipment

Dumbbells

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Hamstrings

Secondary Muscles

Abs, Forearms

Accessory Muscles

Quads, Adductors

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Stability

Training Style

Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Hamstrings

9/10

Biceps Femoris, Semitendinosus

Glutes

7/10

Glute Max

Lower Back

6/10

Erector Spinae

Abs

4/10

Rectus Abdominis, Transverse Abdominis

Forearms

3/10

Flexors

Quads

2/10

Adductors

2/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-12 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-120 seconds

How to Perform

Stand holding a dumbbell in each hand at your sides with palms facing your body. Position feet in B-stance: shift 80-90% weight to one front foot, place back foot toes lightly behind for balance.

  1. Push hips back to hinge forward, keeping back flat and slight bend in front knee.
  2. Lower dumbbells along front leg until hamstring stretch, avoiding back rounding.
  3. Squeeze glutes and hamstrings to drive hips forward and return upright.
  4. Maintain neutral spine and core brace throughout.
  5. Complete reps on one side, then switch legs.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Hinge from hips
  • Back flat, chest up
  • Weights track close to leg
  • Core tight
  • Drive through front heel

Breathing

Inhale as you hinge down; exhale as you drive hips forward.

Tempo

3-0-1

Range of Motion

Hinge until dumbbells reach mid-shin or maximal hamstring stretch with flat back; front knee soft bend, back foot toes touch only.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if acute lower back pain
  • Start light to master form
  • Stop if back discomfort arises
  • Use light touch support if balance issues

Spotting

Not typically required; self-spot with safeties if heavy loads, but prefer rack stops.

Common Mistakes

  • Rounding lower back
  • Excessive knee bend
  • Leaning forward from waist
  • Uneven weight distribution
  • Hyperextending at top

When to Avoid

  • Lower back injury
  • Hamstring strain

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate hip hinge mobility
  • Ankle dorsiflexion for stance

Build Up First

  • Master basic bilateral RDL
  • Hip hinge proficiency
  • Unilateral balance basics

Also known as

B-Stance RDL, Staggered Stance Dumbbell Deadlift, Kickstand Romanian Deadlift

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