Inverted Row (Trap Bar)
A horizontal pulling exercise performed beneath a trap bar set at chest height, targeting the back muscles while being scalable for all fitness levels.
Instructions
- Set a trap bar at approximately chest height in a rack.
- Position yourself beneath the bar with hands gripping both handles with a neutral grip.
- Your body should form a straight line from heels to head, with feet elevated on a bench or platform.
- Pull your body upward until your chest nearly touches the bar.
- Squeeze your back muscles at the top of the movement.
- Lower yourself back down under control to the starting position.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Tips
- Keep your body in a straight line throughout; avoid hips sagging or piking.
- The higher your feet elevation, the more difficult the movement becomes.
- Beginners can start with feet lower or on the ground to reduce difficulty.
- Focus on pulling your chest to the bar rather than just moving your hands.
- This movement builds back strength and is accessible regardless of fitness level.
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 |
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