Single Leg Romanian Deadlift With Kettlebell Hand Switch – An osteopaths perspective

In the video below you will see osteopath Heath Williams of Principle Four Osteopathy performing a single leg romanian deadlift with kettlebell hand switch.  The single leg romanian deadlift is a great exercise as it requires the individual to stabilise on one leg whilst loading up their posterior chain (hamstring and gluteals) whilst having to maintain stability and trunk alignment through the torso.  I will often have clients try the single leg romanian deadlift as it can provide a great deal of insight into ones mobility and stability across both sides of the body.  Clients who are returning from a lower limb injury or for those currently undertaking activities such as running or dynamic sports will benefit from this exercise within their program because of the need for the body to develop unilateral strength and control.  The kettlebell hand switch simply adds another layer of complexity to the exercise because the individual is required to adapt to the shifting load.   Usually I will start clients with bodyweight only and may add additional stability through an anterior hand hold at the mid point of the exercise.  For those struggling with the torso positioning and hip hing pattern I might look to place a dowel stick along ones spine to provide external feedback.  Limiting ones range of motion through the movement is also another strategy that I will incorporate for individuals who are only capable of maintaining suitable technique through part of the movement.

This blog post was written by Melbourne osteopath Heath Williams of Principle Four Osteopathy. Principle Four Osteopathy is one of Melbourne City CBD leading Melbourne Osteopathy clinics. At the clinic we treat a wide range of clients, ranging from the office worker, exercise enthusiast to athlete. We have 3 experienced Melbourne osteopaths working across both of the clinics. The Melbourne City CBD osteopathy clinic is located at 29 Somerset Place (basement), close to the corner of Elizabeth St and Little Bourke in the Melbourne City CBD. Our premises adjoin the Jon Weller Personal Training Studio, a fully-equipped training space which allows clients to combine their osteopathy treatment with exercise tutorials or specific training programs and rehabilitation. The Melbourne osteopathic Docklands clinic is located at 717 Bourke St (Ground Floor), beneath the Channel 9 building near the walkway from Southern Cross Train Station to Etihad Stadium. Our premises adjoin Pilates on Bourke, a fully-equipped pilates and yoga training space which allows clients to combine their osteopathy treatment with exercise tutorials, pilates or specific training programs and rehabilitation. To speak to your Melbourne Osteopath or book an appointment at Principle Four Osteopathy, please book online or call 03 9670 9290.