This is another exercise where I also debate people on the risk/benefit of the exercise. Yes, it's a great exercise to strengthen your hip extensors (glutes and hamstrings) but it's an even better way to injure your back. Repetitive flexion activities have been shown to be a significant factor in back injuries, specifically bulging and herniated disks. Even if you perform the exercise with perfect mechanics, which none of us do all the time, you're still setting yourself up for a problem. Just like the meniscus in the knee, the discs in the spine start to degenerate with age. Combine this with an exercise that puts significant strain on the posterior annulus of the disc and you're in for a lifetime of intermittent back pain. Instead of dead lifts, let's focus on exercises that will still strengthen your hip extensors with less risk of injury. Lunges, step ups, bridging, and squats above 90 can all accomplish this while limiting the risk of low back injury.