Back Extension Machine vs Deadlift
Which one fits your Back workout plan?
Contents
Planfit users log Deadlift more often — 15,439 sessions vs 334. Compare Back form, muscles worked, and when to use each.
Compare the benefits of Back Extension Machine and Deadlift and pick the one that fits your Back workout.
Back Extension Machine vs Deadlift: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Deadlift more often — 15,439 sessions compared to 334 for Back Extension Machine.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Back Extension Machine and Deadlift differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Back Extension Machine and Deadlift Differ
| What differs | Back Extension Machine | Deadlift |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | a machine | a barbell |
| Difficulty | 5 of 5 | 4 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 334 sessions | 15,439 sessions |
How to Do Back Extension Machine
Back Extension Machine Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. Please push the equipment using your core strength.
- 2. Please return to the starting position while maintaining core strength to avoid bending your waist.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Please be careful not to lose tension in your core throughout the exercise.
- 2. Please keep your chest open to avoid rounding your back.
For a full Back Extension Machine guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Back Extension Machine exercise guide.
How to Do Deadlift
Deadlift Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. Move your hips back while lifting the barbell forward.
- 2. Push against the floor and apply pressure to the center of your feet.
- 3. When you are fully upright, puff out your chest and contract your entire back.
- 4. Move your hips back again and bend your knees to return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Please keep your chest open so that your shoulders do not hunch forward.
- 2. Engage your core to prevent your lower back from rounding.
For a full Deadlift guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Deadlift exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Back, Back Extension Machine or Deadlift?
Planfit users log Deadlift more often — 15,439 sessions against 334 for Back Extension Machine. Both train Back, so pick the one that matches the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
What equipment do Back Extension Machine and Deadlift need?
Back Extension Machine needs a machine, and Deadlift needs a barbell.
Which is easier to start with?
Deadlift is the easier place to start. Move to Back Extension Machine once your form holds up.
Stop Guessing Which One to Do
AI picks your workouts based on your goals, body type, and experience.
