Bent-Over Row (Smith Machine)
Level
beginner
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
smith machine Category
strength Primary Muscles

A back compound exercise using the Smith machine where you row the barbell toward your torso while bent over.
Instructions
- Set the barbell attached to the smith machine to a height that is about 2 inches below your knees.
- 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.
- Now grasp the barbell using an overhand (pronated) grip and unlock it from the smith machine rack. Then let it hang directly in front of you as your arms hang extended perpendicular to the floor and your torso. This is your starting position.
- While keeping the torso stationary, lift the barbell as you breathe out, keeping the elbows close to the body and not doing any force with the forearm other than holding the weights. On the top contracted position, squeeze the back muscles and hold for a second.
- Slowly lower the weight again to the starting position as you inhale.
- Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Tips
- Keep your back parallel to the floor throughout the movement.
- Pull the bar to your lower chest/upper abdomen.
- Maintain a neutral spine position at all times.
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 | 5 | 5 reps | 22.5 kg | 15 kg |
| Build muscle | 5 | 8 reps | 20 kg | 12.5 kg |
| Build endurance | 5 | 10 reps | 15 kg | 10 kg |
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