Chest Supported Row (Barbell)

Level
beginner
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
barbell
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

A horizontal pulling exercise where your chest is supported on an inclined bench, eliminating lower back stress. Excellent for isolating back development while minimizing lower back demand.

Instructions

  1. Set an adjustable bench to an incline angle (approximately 30-45 degrees).
  2. Lie face down on the bench with your chest supported against the incline.
  3. Let your arms hang naturally, then grip a barbell with hands slightly wider than shoulder-width.
  4. Keep your feet flat on the floor or the bench for stability.
  5. Pull the barbell toward your chest, driving your elbows back and up.
  6. Squeeze your back muscles and lats at the top of the movement.
  7. Lower the barbell back to the starting position with controlled movement.
  8. Repeat for the prescribed number of repetitions.

Tips

  • Chest support eliminates the need for lower back stability, allowing heavier weight lifting.
  • Focus entirely on back muscle engagement without lower back compensation.
  • The angle of the bench can be adjusted based on comfort and preference.
  • This is an excellent exercise for isolating back development.
  • Proper form and control are important; avoid using momentum.

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 22.5 kg 15 kg
Build muscle 3 10 reps 20 kg 12.5 kg
Build endurance 3 14 reps 15 kg 10 kg

Alternatives

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

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Chest-Supported Incline Row (Dumbbell)

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