Resistance Band Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift

Intermediate
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A unilateral hinge movement using a resistance band to train the hamstrings, glutes, and core stability. It improves balance, hip strength, and body control.

About Exercise

Equipment

Bands

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Hamstrings, Glutes

Secondary Muscles

Abs, Calves

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Stability
Hypertrophy
Endurance

Training Style

Functional Training
Balance Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Hamstrings

10/10

Biceps Femoris, Semitendinosus

Glutes

8/10

Glute Max

Lower Back

6/10

Erector Spinae

Abs

4/10

Rectus Abdominis, Transverse Abdominis

Calves

3/10

Soleus

Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-120 seconds • Rest long enough to regain focus and balance for the second leg.

How to Perform

Loop the resistance band under the working foot and grasp the ends with both hands at hip level. Stand tall with a slight bend in the knee of the supporting leg.

  1. Hinge at your hips, pushing them backward while maintaining a neutral spine.
  2. Simultaneously extend the non-working leg straight behind you for counterbalance.
  3. Lower your torso until the band handles reach shin height or strong hamstring tension is felt.
  4. Drive the hips forward using the hamstrings and glutes to return to the upright position.
  5. Maintain balance and keep the hips level throughout the movement.
  6. Complete all prescribed repetitions on one leg before switching sides.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Hips back, not down
  • Maintain neutral spine
  • Keep hips level
  • Squeeze the glute

Breathing

Inhale deeply, brace the core before initiating the hinge, and exhale as you forcefully return to the standing position.

Tempo

3-0-1

Range of Motion

Hinge until the torso is nearly parallel to the floor, or just before the lower back begins to round or stretch discomfort occurs.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Stop the descent immediately if your lower back feels strained.
  • Prioritize stability and form over depth of movement.
  • Use a wall or support initially if balance is a significant challenge.

Spotting

Not recommended. Focus on controlling band tension and using lighter resistance until stability is mastered.

Common Mistakes

  • Rounding the lower back
  • Bending the knee excessively
  • Losing balance or stability
  • Rushing the lowering phase

When to Avoid

  • Acute lower back pain
  • Severe balance issues
  • Recent hamstring strain or tear

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate hamstring flexibility
  • Good ankle stability in the supporting foot

Build Up First

  • Mastery of the bilateral Romanian Deadlift
  • Basic hip hinge competency

Also known as

Single Stiff Leg Deadlift With Resistance Band, Band Single Leg RDL

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