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BACK / PULL

Barbell Bent-Over Row

A pulling movement that builds the back while reinforcing strong shoulder-blade control.

SETS / REPS4 × 6–8
REST75 sec
LEVELAll levels

MOVEMENT ILLUSTRATION

SEE THE MOVEMENT.

A six-frame Barbell Bent-Over Row reference. Follow the setup, controlled working path, return, and reset with the same form.

Barbell Bent-Over Row technique — set position

01SETBuild a stable starting position.

Barbell Bent-Over Row technique — brace position

02BRACECreate tension before moving.

Barbell Bent-Over Row technique — lower position

03LOWEREnter the range with control.

Barbell Bent-Over Row technique — work position

04WORKMove through the strongest path.

Barbell Bent-Over Row technique — return position

05RETURNControl the return phase.

Barbell Bent-Over Row technique — reset position

06RESETFinish balanced and repeat.

DO

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO

  • Pull with elbows
  • Keep ribs controlled
  • Avoid momentum
  • Finish each set with clean technique
DON'T

WHAT TO AVOID

  • Do not jerk the weight or turn the movement into a lower-back swing.
  • Do not shrug the shoulders toward the ears.
  • Do not shorten the return; allow the arms to lengthen with control.

STEP BY STEP

MOVE WITH CONTROL.

  1. Set your trunk and begin with long arms.
  2. Lead the pull with the elbows and move the shoulder blades smoothly.
  3. Pause briefly in the strongest position.
  4. Return under control without losing posture.
STOP IF SOMETHING FEELS WRONG.

Muscle effort is expected; sharp pain, dizziness, numbness, or unusual discomfort is not. Reduce the load or range, stop the exercise, and seek qualified guidance when needed.