Bent Over Barbell Row
The bent over barbell row is a back exercise that targets the middle back 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 bent over barbell row
Holding a barbell with a pronated grip (palms facing down), bend your knees slightly and bring your torso forward, by bending at the waist, while keeping the back straight until it is almost parallel to the floor. Tip: Make sure that you keep the head up. The barbell should hang directly in front of you as your arms hang perpendicular to the floor and your torso. This is your starting position.
Now, while keeping the torso stationary, breathe out and lift the barbell to you. Keep the elbows close to the body and only use the forearms to hold the weight. At the top contracted position, squeeze the back muscles and hold for a brief pause.
Then inhale and slowly lower the barbell back to the starting position.
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Details
Related back exercises
Browse all back exercises, see our roundup of the best dumbbell back exercises, 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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