Shoulders exercise

Barbell Rear Delt Row

ShouldersBarbellBeginner

The barbell rear delt row is a shoulders exercise that targets the shoulders with barbell. Watch the demo, then follow the step-by-step form guide below.

Looping demonstration — tap play to watch the full movement.

How to do the barbell rear delt row

  1. Stand up straight while holding a barbell using a wide (higher than shoulder width) and overhand (palms facing your body) grip.

  2. Bend knees slightly and bend over as you keep the natural arch of your back. Let the arms hang in front of you as they hold the bar. Once your torso is parallel to the floor, flare the elbows out and away from your body. Tip: Your torso and your arms should resemble the letter "T". Now you are ready to begin the exercise.

  3. While keeping the upper arms perpendicular to the torso, pull the barbell up towards your upper chest as you squeeze the rear delts and you breathe out. Tip: When performed correctly, this exercise should resemble a bench press in reverse. Also, refrain from using your biceps to do the work. Focus on targeting the rear delts; the arms should only act as hooks.

  4. Slowly go back to the initial position as you breathe in.

  5. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Details

Primary muscles
Shoulders
Secondary muscles
BicepsLatsMiddle back
Equipment & classification
BarbellLevel: BeginnerForce: PullMechanic: Compound

Browse all shoulders exercises, read our dumbbell workout for back and shoulders guide, or return to the exercise library.

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Educational information only — not medical advice. Stop if you feel pain and talk to your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise program.

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