The deadlift is a special case in HIT: it starts concentrically, so 'failure' looks different — the bar won't leave the floor. This reference covers setup, cadence, and the honest endpoint.
Setup
Bar over mid-foot, shins to the bar, grip set, chest up, back flat, brace. Push the floor away — the legs drive first, the hips finish. See training to failure.
Cadence
Pull smoothly and steadily to lockout (don't jerk), a brief stand-tall, then lower under control (3-4s). Reset each rep on the floor.
The honest endpoint
When the bar won't leave the floor despite full effort — or stalls just above — the set is done. Lower it, step away. Train to failure safely → See also the HIT squat reference.
Frequently asked
How does failure work on the deadlift?
Because the rep starts from the floor, failure is when the bar won't break the ground despite full effort — or stalls just off the floor. There's no eccentric failure to reach; the set ends when the bar won't move up.
Should I do touch-and-go deadlifts in HIT?
Most HIT trainees reset each rep on the floor (dead-stop) for a clean start and honest form. Touch-and-go adds stretch-reflex and can mask true strength.
Failure Point is a training logbook, not medical advice. Training to failure carries injury risk.
Consult a physician before starting any intense training program.