Teaching Resistance Training Principles to Children Using an Implement: The Deadlift

Abstract

Developing students who are physically literate is one of the most important aspects of physical education (PE). As teachers, we introduce students to the concepts of health and fundamental movement skills like throwing, catching and using implements to allow them the skill proficiency to pursue an active lifestyle. However, if our goal as physical educators is to instill a desire to be physically active in our students, and impart skills, why aren’t we teaching fundamental barbell movements? Learning fundamental barbell movements, just like learning fundamental motor skills, creates the roots of fitness. This allows the student to branch off into resistance training with proficiency in the skill, and also be physically fit enough to tackle other, more intense training programs. This article focuses on the classic hip-hinge move: the deadlift. It not only validates the methods but acts as a guide for physical educators to incorporate fundamental movement concepts using an implement into their curriculum.