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Shoulders exercise · cable

Cable Rear Delt Row (Stirrups)

The cable rear delt row (stirrups) is a cable exercise that targets the shoulders (deltoids), with the trapezius, rhomboids and biceps assisting.

Animated demonstration of the cable rear delt row (stirrups)
Cable Rear Delt Row (Stirrups) — demonstration
Target muscle
Delts
Also works
Trapezius, rhomboids, biceps
Equipment
Cable
Body part
Shoulders

How to do the cable rear delt row (stirrups)

  1. Attach a stirrup handle to a low cable pulley and stand facing the machine.
  2. Grasp the handle with your left hand and take a step back with your right foot, positioning your body at a slight angle.
  3. Bend your knees slightly and hinge forward at the hips, keeping your back straight and your core engaged.
  4. With your left arm extended and your palm facing down, pull the handle towards your chest by retracting your shoulder blade.
  5. Pause for a moment at the top of the movement, squeezing your shoulder blade.
  6. Slowly release the handle back to the starting position and repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
  7. Switch sides and repeat the exercise with your right arm.

Sets and reps

For muscle growth, 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with 60–90 seconds of rest is a proven starting point. For strength, use a heavier weight for 3–5 sets of 3–6 reps and rest 2–3 minutes. Add a little weight once you hit the top of your rep range on every set.

Muscles worked

The main muscle is the shoulders (deltoids). The trapezius, rhomboids and biceps work as secondary muscles. See all shoulder exercises or every cable exercise.

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