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Strength Ratios for Squats and Deadlifts
Following on from our blog on Front Squat vs Back squat, here is some information about what you might be aiming for with deadlift squat ratios.
Strength ratios
The table below shows an estimate of the weights you should be able to lift based on other exercises. I.e. if you can back squat 80kg you should be able to Deadlift 100kg’s.
Please note these are only approximate values which can be greatly affected by technique and vary among individuals. So avoid using them as written rule!
Deadlift |
Back Squat |
Front Squat |
~100% |
~80% |
~68% (85% of BS) |
60kg |
48kg |
40kg |
70kg |
56kg |
48kg |
80kg |
64kg |
54kg |
90kg |
72kg |
61kg |
100kg |
80kg |
68kg |
110kg |
88kg |
75kg |
120kg |
96kg |
82kg |
130kg |
105kg |
90kg |
140kg |
112kg |
95kg |
150kg |
120kg |
102kg |
160kg |
128kg |
109kg |
For example, if you are practiced at the Deadlift but not the back squat, it is unlikely you will be able to back squat up to 80% of your Deadlift 1RM.
If beginning a new exercise it is better to underestimate your rep max as you can always add more weight!
If you lift too heavy the chances are YOU WILL BREAK!
In summary you should be able to back squat more than you can front squat, and Deadlift the same or more than you can back squat.
These are some of the lifts used in our Get Stronger programme here.
Or train at our licensed Weight Lifting Club in Devon
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Comments
[…] Liberal use of the word “strong”. Field athletes are strong, weightlifters are strong; some elite rugby players are now becoming strong but many are NOT STRONG. A simple formula used by old timers for strength was 3,4,5 i.e. bench 300lb, squat 400lb, deadlift 500lb. […]
This was pretty helpful two years ago and still till this day I think these ratios are for people with shorter torso and long legs .