Barbell Row
A bent-over horizontal pull: the fundamental movement for back thickness.
- Sets
- 4
- Reps
- 8-10
- Rest
- 120 s
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
Free WeightsSecondary muscles: Arms, Core
Movement Pattern
Targeted Muscles
How to Perform
- 01Grip the bar shoulder-width and hinge forward at the hips (torso ~45 degrees).
- 02Pull the bar toward your upper abdomen, driving the elbows back.
- 03Squeeze your shoulder blades, then lower the bar under control.
Form Tips
- Keep your lower back neutral; never let it round.
- Pull with your back, not by swinging your torso.
Other Back Exercises
- Bodyweight
Pull-Up
Back
Vertical pulling with bodyweight: the gold standard for back width.
4 × 5-10Advanced - Bodyweight
Superman
Back
A prone bodyweight movement that strengthens the lower back and spinal erectors.
3 × 12-15Beginner - Free Weights
Deadlift
Back
Lifting from the floor: the most fundamental strength exercise, training the entire posterior chain in one movement.
4 × 5-6Advanced