Bent Over Barbell Row

The barbell bent-over row is a compound exercise used to build strength and size in both the lower and upper back. It targets nearly all of the muscles in the back, but particularly the lats, rhomboids, and lower back. It is commonly utilized as an accessory movement for the deadlift in powerlifting, but is also popular in strength and muscle-focused upper-body workouts.

Benefits

  1. Builds both back size and strength
  2. Strengthens the lats, rhomboids, spinal erectors, hamstrings, and glutes
  3. Teaches proper ab bracing and spinal position
  4. Can be loaded more heavily than other row variations
8.7
Average

Bent Over Barbell Row Images

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Bent Over Barbell Row Instructions

Bent Over Barbell Row muscle diagram
  1. Holding a barbell with a pronated grip (palms facing down), bend your knees slightly and bring your torso forward, by bending at the waist, while keeping the back straight until it is almost parallel to the floor. Tip: Make sure that you keep the head up. The barbell should hang directly in front of you as your arms hang perpendicular to the floor and your torso. This is your starting position.
  2. Now, while keeping the torso stationary, breathe out and lift the barbell to you. Keep the elbows close to the body and only use the forearms to hold the weight. At the top contracted position, squeeze the back muscles and hold for a brief pause.
  3. Then inhale and slowly lower the barbell back to the starting position.
  4. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Caution: This exercise is not recommended for people with back problems. A Low Pulley Row is a better choice for people with back issues.

Also, just like with the bent knee dead-lift, if you have a healthy back, ensure perfect form and never slouch the back forward as this can cause back injury.

Be cautious as well with the weight used; in case of doubt, use less weight rather than more.

Variations: You can perform the same exercise using a supinated (palms facing you) grip.