Exercise Comparison
Axle Deadlift vs Pyramid




Side-by-Side
Muscle Analysis
Shared
Only in Axle Deadlift
Only in Pyramid
Instructions
Axle Deadlift
Approach the bar so that it is centered over your feet. You feet should be about hip width apart. Bend at the hip to grip the bar at shoulder width, allowing your shoulder blades to protract. Typically, you would use an over/under grip.
With your feet and your grip set, take a big breath and then lower your hips and flex the knees until your shins contact the bar. Look forward with your head, keep your chest up and your back arched, and begin driving through the heels to move the weight upward.
After the bar passes the knees, aggressively pull the bar back, pulling your shoulder blades together as you drive your hips forward into the bar.
Lower the bar by bending at the hips and guiding it to the floor.
Pyramid
Start off by rolling your torso forward onto the ball so your hips rest on top of the ball and become the highest point of your body.
Rest your hands and feet on the floor. Your arms and legs can be slightly bent or straight, depending on the size of the ball, your flexibility, and the length of your limbs. This also helps develop stabilizing strength in your torso and shoulders.
Verdict
Both exercises target the lower back. Axle Deadlift is a intermediate exercise using other, while Pyramid is beginner and uses exercise ball. Choose Pyramid if you're looking for a more accessible option, or Axle Deadlift for a greater challenge.