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Row & Plank

Core & upper body strength meet! Row & Plank builds stability while toning your back, shoulders & abs. A full-body win!

The Row & Plank is a compound exercise that mainly works the back and chest, with help from the core and triceps. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Row & Plank demo video 2
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Row & Plank Muscles Worked

Primary

Lats (latissimus dorsi); Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head)

Secondary

Deep Core (transverse abdominis); Triceps (triceps brachii)

How to do the Row & Plank

  1. Starting Position:

    • Begin in a high plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders and your body in a straight line from head to heels.

    • If using dumbbells, hold one in each hand.

  2. Body Alignment:

    • Ensure your feet are slightly wider than hip-width apart to provide better stability.

    • Engage your core, keeping your hips level and preventing them from sagging or rising.

  3. Rowing Movement:

    • Shift your weight onto your right hand as you lift your left dumbbell (or arm) off the ground.

    • Pull the left elbow up towards your ribcage, keeping the dumbbell close to your body.

  4. Return:

    • Lower the dumbbell back to the ground with control and re-establish your high plank position.

  5. Alternate Sides:

    • Shift your weight onto your left hand and lift the right dumbbell (or arm).

    • Pull the right elbow toward your ribcage and lower back to the ground.

  6. Repetitions:

    • Perform 8-12 repetitions on each side, or as many as you can while maintaining good form.

  7. Tips for Success:

    • Keep your core tight throughout the exercise to maintain stability and protect your lower back.

    • Avoid rotating your torso; aim to keep your hips as stable as possible.

    • If you feel unstable, you can do the exercise with your knees on the ground until you develop more strength and balance.

  8. Cooldown:

    • Finish with a gentle stretch, focusing on your shoulders, back, and core.

This exercise not only strengthens your upper body but also engages your core and improves stability.

Row & Plank FAQs

What muscles does the Row & Plank work?

The Row & Plank mainly works the back and chest, with help from the core and triceps. The main muscles are the latissimus dorsi and pectoralis major.

What equipment do you need for the Row & Plank?

None. The Row & Plank is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

Is the Row & Plank 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 Row & Plank go on?

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

What are some Row & Plank variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Bodyweight Kneeling Push-Up Row, Dumbbell Renegade Row Walk, Dumbbell Underhand Renegade Row and Dumbbell Deep Push-Up & Renegade Row.

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