Barbell Bent-over Row

Instructions

Preparation

Bend knees slightly and bend over bar with back straight. Grasp bar with wide overhand grip.

Execution

Pull bar to upper waist. Return until arms are extended and shoulders are stretched downward. Repeat.

Comments

Torso may be kept horizontal for strict execution. Knees are bent in effort to keep low back straight (See Hamstring Inflexibility). If low back becomes rounded due to tight hamstrings, either try bending knees more or don't position torso as low. Either fix may compromise involvement of Latissimus Dorsi since it forces more shoulder transverse extension and less shoulder extension range of motion. If low back is rounded due to poor form, deadlift weight to standing position and lower torso into horizontal position with knees bent and back straight. A shoulder width or underhand grip can increase lat involvement by emphasizing shoulder extension over transverse extension. A wide overhand grip involves overall back musculature while slightly emphasizing Rear Delt, Infraspinatus and Teres Minor involvement.

Classification

Utility:	Basic
Mechanics:	Compound
Force:	Pull

Muscles

Target

• Back, General

Synergists

• Trapezius, Middle
• Trapezius, Lower
• Rhomboids
• Latissimus Dorsi
• Teres Major
• Deltoid, Posterior
• Infraspinatus
• Teres Minor
• Brachialis
• Brachioradialis
• Pectoralis Major, Sternal

Dynamic Stabilizers

• Biceps Brachii
• Triceps, Long Head

Stabilizers

• Erector Spinae
• Hamstrings
• Gluteus Maximus
• Adductor Magnus

Antagonist Stabilizers

• Rectus Abdominis
• Obliques