Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
The barbell bent over row is a compound exercise that primarily targets the muscles of the upper back, including the lats, rhomboids, and traps. It's an effective movement for building overall upper body strength and improving posture..
1. Set Up the Barbell: Begin by positioning the barbell on the floor in front of you. Use a pronated grip (palms facing downward) slightly wider than shoulder-width.
2. Foot Placement: Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Keep a slight bend in your knees for stability.
3. Bend Over: Hinge at your hips and slightly bend your knees to lean forward. Your upper body should be at a roughly 45-degree angle to the floor. Maintain a neutral spine with your head in line with your spine.
4. Grip the Barbell: Reach down and grasp the barbell with both hands using the pronated grip. Your hands should be slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Your wrists should be aligned with your forearms.
5. Engage Your Core: Tighten your core muscles to stabilize your spine and support your lower back during the movement.
6. Initiate the Row: Pull the barbell toward your lower ribs by retracting your shoulder blades. Keep your elbows close to your body as you pull the barbell up.
7. Barbell Path: As you pull the barbell, focus on keeping it close to your body. Aim to lift the barbell to your lower ribcage while maintaining a strong and controlled movement.
8. Squeeze Your Shoulder Blades: At the top of the movement, squeeze your shoulder blades together to engage your upper back muscles fully.
9. Lower the Barbell: Slowly lower the barbell back to the starting position, allowing your arms to fully extend while keeping tension on your upper back muscles.
10. Complete the Repetitions: Perform the desired number of repetitions while maintaining proper form. Avoid using momentum or jerking motions to lift the weight.
Strength & Conditioning
Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Barbell
Back, Core, Legs, Lower Body
No Sport