Deadlifting is one of the simplest yet most powerful exercises out there. As a 146cm, 42kg woman who can deadlift 100kg, I’ve found incredible joy in this movement—not just because of the strength it builds, but because of the sense of achievement it brings.

Despite common misconceptions (like “Won’t you hurt your back?”), deadlifting is a safe and effective full-body exercise when done correctly. It’s not just about lifting heavy weights; it’s about pushing your limits, building confidence, and even improving your mental health.

In this article, I’ll share why deadlifting is so fun, especially as a short woman, and why more women should consider adding it to their workout routine.

Why Deadlifting Is So Fun (and Effective!)

1. The Simplicity of Deadlifting

One of the best things about deadlifting is its simplicity. Unlike other exercises that require complex movements or special equipment, the deadlift is straightforward:

👉 Pick up a heavy weight from the ground.

That’s it. No complicated steps, no unnecessary movements—just raw strength and technique. And yet, this simplicity makes it one of the most effective full-body workouts.

2. Full-Body Benefits for Strength and Fitness

Deadlifting is a compound movement, meaning it works multiple muscle groups at once. This includes:

• Legs & Glutes – Quads, hamstrings, and glutes power the lift.
• Core & Lower Back – A strong core is essential for stability.
• Arms & Grip Strength – Your forearms and hands get stronger with every lift.
• Upper Back & Shoulders – Helps with posture and overall strength.

Because it engages so many muscles, deadlifting is one of the best exercises for staying in shape and burning fat. In fact, studies show that resistance training, including deadlifting, increases metabolic rate and promotes fat loss more effectively than cardio alone (Westcott, 2012).

3. Debunking the “Bad for Your Back” Myth

The most common reaction I get when I tell people I deadlift is:

🗣️ “Be careful with your back!”

It’s funny because, in reality, sitting all day in an office chair is far worse for your back than deadlifting with proper form. Research shows that weightlifting, when performed correctly, can actually reduce lower back pain and improve spinal health (Belavy et al., 2016).

The key is good form and gradual progression. If done right, deadlifting strengthens the lower back, core, and posture, making daily activities easier and safer.

4. The Mental Boost – Strength Training and Mood

Beyond physical benefits, deadlifting has a surprising effect on mental health. Studies suggest that resistance training reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety (Gordon et al., 2018).

Why? Because lifting heavy weights:
✅ Releases endorphins (the “feel-good” hormones)
✅ Increases confidence as you hit new personal records
✅ Provides a sense of control and accomplishment

For me, there’s no better feeling than standing up with a heavy barbell in my hands, knowing that I just lifted more than twice my body weight.

Conclusion

Deadlifting is an art—simple yet powerful, challenging yet rewarding. It builds strength, burns fat, improves mental health, and most importantly, it’s fun.

As a short woman, I love proving that size doesn’t matter when it comes to lifting. Whether you’re looking to get stronger, leaner, or just feel more confident, deadlifting is an incredible way to push yourself beyond what you thought possible.

So to all the women out there—give deadlifting a try. You might surprise yourself. 💪