Log Lift
The Log Lift is a intermediate compound movement that activates 10 muscle groups simultaneously. It primarily targets the Shoulders, making it one of the more efficient exercises in RepStack's 873-exercise database.
Starting position
Ending position
Muscles Worked
The shoulders handles the primary load during this movement. The abdominals and chest and glutes and hamstrings and lower back and middle back and quadriceps and traps and triceps assist as stabilizers throughout the range of motion.
How to Log Lift
- 1
Begin standing with the log in front of you. Grasp the handles, and begin to clean the log. As you are bent over to start the clean, attempt to get the log as high as possible, pulling it into your chest. Extend through the hips and knees to bring it up to complete the clean.
- 2
Push your head back and look up, creating a shelf on your chest to rest the log. Begin the press by dipping, flexing slightly through the knees and reversing the motion. This push press will generate momentum to start the log moving vertically. Continue by extending through the elbows to press the log above your head. There are no strict rules on form, so use whatever techniques you are most efficient with. As the log is pressed, ensure that you push your head through on each repetition, looking forward.
- 3
Repeat as many times as possible. Attempt to control the descent of the log as it is returned to the ground.
Common Mistakes
- • Brace your core before initiating the movement — maintain tension throughout the entire range of motion.
- • Control the eccentric (lowering) phase for at least 2 seconds to maximize muscle fiber recruitment.
- • Avoid locking out aggressively at the top — stop just short of full extension to keep tension on the muscle.
Similar Exercises
Frequently Asked Questions
What muscles does the Log Lift work?
The Log Lift primarily works the Shoulders. Secondary muscles include the Abdominals, Chest, Glutes, Hamstrings, Lower Back, Middle Back, Quadriceps, Traps, Triceps, which assist during the movement.
Is the Log Lift good for beginners?
The Log Lift is rated intermediate. Beginners should build foundational strength with simpler movements first, then progress to this exercise once comfortable with the movement pattern.
What equipment do I need for the Log Lift?
You need other to perform the Log Lift. Most commercial gyms will have this available.
Track Your Progress
RepStack logs every set, calculates your e1RM, and coaches progressive overload — automatically.