Seated Row (Band)
Seated horizontal pulling exercise using resistance bands to strengthen the middle back and rear shoulders.
Instructions
- Sit upright on a bench with feet flat on the floor and knees slightly bent.
- Loop a resistance band around a fixed anchor at chest height or hold it with a partner.
- Grip the band with both hands at shoulder-width, arms extended forward.
- Keep your spine neutral with shoulders retracted and chest proud.
- Pull the band toward your torso by driving your elbows back and pinching your shoulder blades together.
- Bring the band to your lower chest or upper abdomen, squeezing the back muscles hard.
- Slowly extend your arms back to the starting position with controlled resistance.
Tips
- Squeeze your shoulder blades together at the peak of each rep for maximum back engagement
- Keep your torso stable; avoid rounding your shoulders or hunching forward
- Maintain a neutral spine throughout—engage your core to prevent lower back stress
- Focus on pulling with your back muscles, not just your arms
- Use a smooth, controlled tempo to maximize time under tension
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 |
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