Barbell Bent-Over Row

Barbell Bent-Over Row

Type: Compound Muscle: Upper Back Equipment: Barbell

This exercise targets the back muscles, with secondary work on the biceps and forearms.

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This exercise targets:

Upper Back
Lats
Traps
Shoulders
Rear Delts
Rotator Cuff
Biceps

Ratios are approximate and can vary depending on form and technique.

How to perform

  1. Stand hip-width, feet under bar; grasp with overhand, shoulder-width grip
  2. Hinge at hips, slight knee bend; keep back flat and chest proud
  3. Set torso about 30–45° to the floor; head neutral, core braced
  4. Pull the bar toward your lower ribs/upper belly, elbows close to your sides
  5. Squeeze shoulder blades together at the top; don’t shrug the shoulders
  6. Lower the bar under control until arms are straight; keep bar close to body
  7. Breathe out as you row up, inhale on the way down
  8. Avoid rounding your back or jerking the weight; use a load you can control