Dr. Mark

Training

Seated Cable Row

Seated Cable Row

Train.exerciseLibrary.primaryMuscles

  • Latissimus dorsi
  • Rhomboids
  • Middle trapezius

Secondary muscles

  • Posterior deltoid
  • Biceps brachii
  • Forearm flexors

Technique

  • Sit upright with your feet firmly placed on the platform.
  • Maintain a neutral spine and lifted chest.
  • Grasp the handle with both hands.
  • Pull the handle toward the lower ribs or upper abdomen.
  • Squeeze the shoulder blades together at the end of the movement.
  • Slowly extend the arms and return to the starting position.
  • Maintain control throughout the exercise.

Common mistakes

  • Excessive swinging of the torso.
  • Rounded lower back.
  • Shrugging the shoulders.
  • Pulling primarily with the arms.
  • Incomplete range of motion.

Special recommendations

  • Initiate the movement with the back muscles.
  • Keep the chest lifted throughout the exercise.
  • Control the eccentric phase.
  • Focus on shoulder blade movement.

When to use

  • Building back thickness.
  • Improving posture.
  • Developing pulling strength.
  • Balancing pressing exercises.

Consider modifications if

  • Moderate lower-back discomfort worsens during the exercise.
  • Moderate shoulder pain occurs during pulling movements.
  • Range of motion is significantly limited in the pulling pattern.
  • Proper technique cannot be maintained throughout the exercise.

In these situations, consider reducing load, adjusting technique, choosing an alternative exercise, or consulting a qualified professional.

Experience level

  • Beginner
  • Intermediate
  • Advanced

Exercise variations

  • Close-Grip Row

    Greater range of motion and stronger latissimus dorsi involvement.

  • Wide-Grip Row

    Places greater emphasis on the upper back and rear deltoids.

  • Single-Arm Cable Row

    Improves unilateral strength and side-to-side balance.

  • Chest-Supported Cable Row

    Reduces lower-back involvement and increases stability.