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Dumbbell Single-Arm Row

Strengthen your back with the Dumbbell Single-Arm Row! Build muscle and improve posture with this effective exercise.

The Dumbbell Single-Arm Row is a compound exercise that mainly works the back, with help from the traps and biceps. You'll need: exercise bench or dumbbells.

Dumbbell Single-Arm Row demo video 2
Ms. Grey
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Required Equipment

Dumbbells
Dumbbells
Exercise Bench
Exercise Bench

Dumbbell Single-Arm Row Muscles Worked

Primary

Lats (latissimus dorsi); Rhomboids (Shoulder Blade) (rhomboids, major & minor)

Secondary

Mid Traps (trapezius, middle fibers); Biceps (biceps brachii)

How to do the Dumbbell Single-Arm Row

Dumbbell One Arm Row Instructions

  • Flat surface (like a bench or a sturdy table)

Positioning:

  1. Stand beside a bench or flat surface, holding a dumbbell in one hand.

  2. Place the opposite knee and hand on the bench for support. Your other leg should be straight and standing on the ground.

  3. Ensure your back is flat and parallel to the ground. Engage your core to maintain stability.

Movement:

  1. Start with the dumbbell hanging straight down from your shoulder, your arm fully extended.

  2. Exhale and pull the dumbbell towards your hip. Focus on squeezing your shoulder blade as you lift the weight.

  3. Keep your elbow close to your body, moving it along your side.

  4. Continue pulling until your elbow is at a 90-degree angle, then pause for a moment at the top of the movement.

  5. Inhale as you lower the dumbbell back to the starting position, fully extending your arm.

  6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, then switch sides to work the other arm.

Tips for Beginners:

  • Start with a light weight to learn the movement and avoid injury.

  • Focus on using your back muscles rather than your arms to lift the weight.

  • Maintain good posture throughout the exercise, avoiding arching your back.

Dumbbell Single-Arm Row FAQs

What muscles does the Dumbbell Single-Arm Row work?

The Dumbbell Single-Arm Row mainly works the back, with help from the traps and biceps. The main muscles are the latissimus dorsi and rhomboids.

What equipment do you need for the Dumbbell Single-Arm Row?

Exercise bench or dumbbells.

Is the Dumbbell Single-Arm Row a compound exercise?

Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.

What workout day should the Dumbbell Single-Arm Row go on?

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

What are some Dumbbell Single-Arm Row variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Barbell Single-Arm Bent-Over Row, Bicep Table Row, Dumbbell Wide Bent-Over Row and Dumbbell Bent-Over Twisting Row.

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