Appears in642 Workouts*

Dumbbell Head-Supported Row

Isolate back muscles with controlled rows. Head support ensures proper form!

The Dumbbell Head-Supported Row mainly works the back and shoulders, with help from the traps. You'll need: exercise bench or dumbbells.

Mr. Grey
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Required Equipment

Dumbbells
Dumbbells
Exercise Bench
Exercise Bench

Dumbbell Head-Supported Row Muscles Worked

Primary

Lats (latissimus dorsi); Rear Shoulder (Delts) (posterior deltoid)

Secondary

Rhomboids (Shoulder Blade) (rhomboids, major & minor); Mid Traps (trapezius, middle fibers)

How to do the Dumbbell Head-Supported Row

  1. Position a flat bench at about hip height and stand to the side of it holding a dumbbell in your outside hand.

  2. Place your opposite hand and knee on the bench for support. Keep your back straight and parallel to the floor.

  3. Rest your head lightly on the top end of the bench to minimize neck strain and to maintain a stable posture.

  4. Let the dumbbell hang straight down at arm's length, ensuring your arm is fully extended and shoulder blade is slightly protracted.

  5. Without moving your torso, pull the dumbbell up to the side of your torso, bending at the elbow and driving the elbow behind you.

  6. Squeeze your shoulder blades together at the top of the movement for a full contraction in your back muscles.

  7. Lower the dumbbell slowly back to the starting position, controlling the weight on the way down to complete one repetition.

  8. Perform the desired number of reps on one side, then switch to the other side and repeat with the same number of reps.

  9. Keep your movements controlled throughout the exercise and avoid any jerking motions.

Tips: - Make sure to use a weight that is challenging but allows you to maintain proper form throughout the set. - Do not lift your head off the bench; keep it supported to ensure you are isolating the upper back muscles effectively. - Breathe out as you pull the dumbbell up and breathe in as you lower it back down.

Dumbbell Head-Supported Row FAQs

What muscles does the Dumbbell Head-Supported Row work?

The Dumbbell Head-Supported Row mainly works the back and shoulders, with help from the traps. The main muscles are the latissimus dorsi and posterior deltoid.

What equipment do you need for the Dumbbell Head-Supported Row?

Exercise bench or dumbbells.

What workout day should the Dumbbell Head-Supported Row go on?

It belongs on pull day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Dumbbell Head-Supported Row variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Dumbbell Lying Neutral-Grip Rack Row, Dumbbell Bent-Over Row, Dumbbell Against-Wall Bent-Over Row and Dumbbell Bent-Over Scapula Row.

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