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Upper back exercise · body weight

Bodyweight Standing Close-Grip Row

The bodyweight standing close-grip row is a bodyweight exercise that targets the upper back, with the biceps and forearms assisting.

Animated demonstration of the bodyweight standing close-grip row
Bodyweight Standing Close-Grip Row — demonstration
Target muscle
Upper back
Also works
Biceps, forearms
Equipment
Body weight
Body part
Back

How to do the bodyweight standing close-grip row

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent.
  2. Bend forward at the waist, keeping your back straight and your core engaged.
  3. Extend your arms straight in front of you, gripping the bar or handles with a close grip.
  4. Pull the bar or handles towards your body, squeezing your shoulder blades together.
  5. Pause for a moment at the top of the movement, then slowly release and return to the starting position.
  6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Sets and reps

Start with 3 sets of 10–15 reps, resting 45–60 seconds. When every set feels easy, add reps, slow the lowering phase or move to a harder variation.

Muscles worked

The main muscle is the upper back. The biceps and forearms work as secondary muscles. See all upper back exercises or every bodyweight exercise.

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