Bent-Over Row (Cable)

Level
intermediate
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
cable
Category
strength
Primary Muscles

Compound back exercise performed from a bent-over position, rowing the cable handles toward your torso to build back thickness and strength.

Instructions

  1. Stand facing a cable machine with handles set at about chest height.
  2. Bend forward at the hips until your torso is nearly parallel to the ground, knees slightly bent.
  3. Grasp the handles with a neutral grip, arms fully extended.
  4. Drive your elbows back and row the handles toward your lower chest/abdomen.
  5. Squeeze your lats and middle back at the top of the movement.
  6. Extend your arms back to the starting position under control.

Tips

  • Keep your back straight throughout; avoid rounding your lower back.
  • Initiate the movement by driving your elbows back, not by pulling with your arms.
  • Maintain the bent-over position; do not stand up during the set.
  • Use a controlled tempo, particularly on the eccentric (lowering) phase.
  • This movement builds back thickness and strength when performed with heavy weight and lower reps.

Recommended starting values

Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.

Goal Sets Reps Weight
Male Female
Gain strength 3 7 reps 27.5 kg 17.5 kg
Build muscle 3 10 reps 25 kg 17.5 kg
Build endurance 3 14 reps 20 kg 12.5 kg

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

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Bent-Over Row Reverse-Grip (Barbell)

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