dumbbell squat vs deadlift - JP Fitness Forums

gocubbies · 03-02-2008, 10:02 AM

So is there really all that much of a difference between squatting and deadlifting with dumbbells? Assuming you have the db's hanging down at your sides, what's the difference? On magazine's demo videos shows the squat with the db's parallel to your body, while the squat has them perpendicular.
thanks

AFI82 · 03-03-2008, 01:47 PM

Squatting with dumbbells at my side, I would think that my hands would be resting on the ground before I reached the bottom position. So I wouldn't really be able to go full depth. This would be different for everyone though due to leg/torso/arm length.

With the deadlift, I start bent over and rise to a vertical position. With the squat, the angle of my back usually stays the same in relation to the ground. So that seems different too.

Also, the center of gravity is going to be different. One will have you leaning a little farther forward. The other will have you standing up a little straighter.

Lisa~ · 03-03-2008, 02:23 PM

AF is right that there is a difference, but I know what you mean about them feeling similar. With a barbell there's a big difference, but when you have to use DBs for both, it's not as clear. To get more of a squat feeling with DBs, put them on your shoulders if you can. Then you can keep your torso in more of a standard squat positioning. I like DB deads because you can really sit back if you let the DBs move slightly to the outside of your shins as you descend.