Boost your deadlift by including this unusual exercise in your workouts

A new British deadlift record was set last weekend

Competing in the British Powerlifting Championships, Chris Jenkins deadlifted 315 kilograms (kg). This was a new deadlift record for athletes in the 83 kg and under category. Powerlifting tests the following main lifts, known as the 'big three':

• Bench press
• Squat
• Deadlift

But what often goes unnoticed is a powerlifter's assistance work - the other, lesser-known gym exercises they use to boost performance on the bench press, squat and deadlift. Related: these are the best alternatives to the bench press, squat and deadlift Speaking on Instagram, Welshman Jenkins explained the methods behind his training in the run-up to the finals. https://www.instagram.com/p/BxfwAgnFzz5YEGV7E13fzRhjfQi6Dh-if-Flgo0/ One lift in particular featured prominently in Jenkins' training plan - and helped bring his deadlift up to a British-record best. It's an exercise more familiar with booty-building gym workouts, and not one you'd typically associate with spit-and-sawdust weightlifting. The exercise in question is the glute kickback. It can be performed on a cable pulley, using a specific machine or with resistance bands as above. Speaking about this exercise, Jenkins said: "I did a lot of direct glute training which helped a lot with my deadlift. I did a lot of cable kickbacks, individual leg, and hyperextensions bending at the hip. "I didn't do a lot of glute bridges with this training cycle, but I do think they're good."

How to perform the glute kickback

• Attach an ankle cuff and hook it up to a low cable pulley
• Stand facing towards the machine, about an arm's length away
• Hold on to the top part of the machine if it helps you remain stable
• Keeping your lifting leg straight, bring your foot back as far as you can
• Squeeze your glutes when you feel the contraction, and then lower to the beginning
• Perform 8-12 reps, then switch sides

Looking to get better at the deadlift in general? These are three key tips from another top British powerlifter. Read more from JOE:

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