The Single-Leg Cable Romanian Deadlift is a deceptive exercise. Judy makes it look easy in the video, but don’t be fooled—it’s much more challenging than it appears. This variation fires up your stabilizers from the foot all the way up to the hip and beyond. It doesn’t take much weight to get a solid training effect—you’ll definitely feel it!

Start with the cable version first—it provides some directional guidance and resistance that makes balance a bit easier. Over time, you can progress to using a dumbbell or kettlebell, which demand more from your stabilizers.

Key Technique Tips:

• Soften the opposite knee.
• Keep the hips level and your back flat.
• Hinge only at the hip.
• Brace your core tight throughout.
• Aim to reach a parallel position to the ground, within the limits of your flexibility and strength.

Pro Tip for Balance:

Here’s a great cue from Stephen Bergeron:

Keep your weight on the heel of your foot while digging your big toe into the ground. This innervates your sciatic nerve and helps stabilize your quad.

If you’re still struggling with balance, lightly hold on to something—like a foam roller—with your opposite hand for support, and gradually work to eliminate that assistance over time.

Give it a shot!