Upright Row (Cable)
A shoulder exercise using cable resistance with an upright pulling motion to develop the shoulders and upper back. Builds shoulder strength and trap development.
Instructions
- Stand facing a cable machine with the pulley at approximately waist height.
- Grab the handle with both hands using a grip slightly narrower than shoulder-width.
- Position your feet shoulder-width apart with a slight bend in your knees.
- Maintain an upright posture and engage your core throughout the movement.
- Pull the handle upward toward your chin, leading with your elbows.
- Raise the handle until your elbows are at approximately shoulder height.
- Slowly lower the handle back to the starting position with control.
Tips
- Keep your elbows higher than your hands throughout the movement to maximize trap and shoulder engagement.
- The constant cable tension provides resistance throughout the entire range of motion.
- Use a grip width that allows for comfortable elbow positioning and shoulder engagement.
- Avoid excessive weight that forces you to use momentum or cheat on the movement.
- This movement builds shoulder strength and can improve posture through trap development.
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 | 17.5 kg | 10 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 reps | 15 kg | 7.5 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 14 reps | 12.5 kg | 5 kg |
Alternatives
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