Heel Elevation

Approximately 80% of body weight should be loaded through the heel of the elevated foot. During the drill, the front of the feet are lifted so that body weight rests entirely on the heels. The heels are elevated on a book so the front of the feet can lift off the ground. Weight should be kept biased toward the heel on the block rather than the ball of the foot. Heel elevation shifts the movement emphasis compared with a standard deadlift pattern. The working foot is placed on top of an elevated surface such as a plate, block, or book. Heel elevation can be achieved with two weight plates or Olympic lifting shoes. The plates should be placed on the floor where the heels will rest.