Exercise of the Week - Lunge Deadlift

I'm all about saving time when it comes to lifting weights and this Lunge Deadlift is one exercise that will do the trick. This advanced exercise combines what is essentially a one-legged squat with a one-legged deadlift to work just about every muscle in the lower body as well as the abs and lower back. This is a tough move, requiring balance, strength and concentration to get the most out of it.

The key to this move is to bring the weights to the floor while lunging down. This will put you in the right position for your deadlift, but make sure you keep the back straight and the abs engaged. As you straighten the front leg, you'll keep the torso in the same position. The first time you do this, it may feel a little like patting your head and rubbing your belly at the same time, so you may want to practice without weights the first time around.

Do it right: Get into a lunge position with the back foot resting on a step or platform. Hold light-medium weights in both hands and bend the knees into a lunge. As you lunge, lower the torso towards the front thigh and bring the weights towards the floor while keeping the abs engaged. Keeping that position, straighten the front knee. Bend the knee and push back to start, repeating for 8-10 reps before switching sides. Complete 1-3 sets.