Inverted Row (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Level
beginner
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
trx
Category
strength

A fundamental rowing movement using suspension straps with an inverted body position. Builds back strength and muscle while being scale-able for all levels.

Instructions

  1. Stand facing the TRX anchor point and grasp the handles with an overhand grip
  2. Walk your feet forward to create an incline with your body
  3. Maintain a straight line from your heels to your head
  4. Pull your body toward the handles by driving your elbows back and down
  5. Retract your shoulder blades and bring your chest toward the handles
  6. Pause briefly at the top, squeezing your back muscles
  7. Extend your arms to lower your body back to the starting position
  8. Maintain core tension throughout the movement

Tips

  • Keep your body in a straight plank position; avoid sagging hips or piking
  • The more horizontal your body, the harder the exercise; adjust foot position to scale difficulty
  • Drive through your mid-back and shoulders, not just your arms
  • Breathe in as you lower, exhale as you pull
  • Feel the contraction in your lats and middle back
  • For beginners, keep your body more upright; progress by leaning back
  • Maintain a neutral neck position; don’t look up excessively

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
Gain strength 3 7 reps
Build muscle 3 10 reps
Build endurance 3 14 reps

Alternatives

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

Inverted Row Single Arm (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about inverted row single arm (trx / suspension trainer)
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beginner strength