Bent-Over Row (Trap Bar)

Level
intermediate
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
trap bar
Category
strength
Primary Muscles

A horizontal pulling compound movement performed with a trap bar, targeting the lats and mid-back while the neutral grip reduces shoulder stress compared to barbell rows.

Instructions

  1. Load the trap bar with weight and stand in the center with feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. Bend at the hips and knees to lower your torso until it is nearly parallel to the ground, keeping your back straight.
  3. Grip both handles with a neutral grip (palms facing each other), arms fully extended.
  4. Pull the handles toward your lower chest by driving your elbows back and squeezing your lats.
  5. Pause briefly at the top of the movement.
  6. Lower the weight under control back to the starting position.

Tips

  • Maintain a neutral spine throughout; avoid rounding your lower back.
  • Keep your core engaged and chest up as you hinge forward.
  • The neutral grip is easier on the shoulders compared to a wide overhand grip.
  • Drive through your legs slightly as you initiate the pull for more power.
  • Control the eccentric (lowering) phase to maximize muscle engagement.

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 27.5 kg 17.5 kg
Build muscle 5 8 reps 25 kg 17.5 kg
Build endurance 5 10 reps 20 kg 12.5 kg

Alternatives

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

expert strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
Bent-Over Row Reverse-Grip (Barbell)

Bent-Over Row Reverse-Grip (Barbell)

Learn more about bent-over row reverse-grip (barbell)
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength

Chest-Supported Incline Row (Dumbbell)

Learn more about chest-supported incline row (dumbbell)
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
expert strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength