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Upper back exercise · cable

Cable Reverse-Grip Straight Back Seated High Row

The cable reverse-grip straight back seated high row is a cable exercise that targets the upper back, with the biceps and forearms assisting.

Animated demonstration of the cable reverse-grip straight back seated high row
Cable Reverse-Grip Straight Back Seated High Row — demonstration
Target muscle
Upper back
Also works
Biceps, forearms
Equipment
Cable
Body part
Back

How to do the cable reverse-grip straight back seated high row

  1. Sit on the seat facing the cable machine with your feet flat on the floor.
  2. Grasp the cable attachment with an underhand grip, palms facing up, and your hands shoulder-width apart.
  3. Keep your back straight and lean slightly forward from your hips.
  4. Pull the cable towards your torso by retracting your shoulder blades and squeezing your back muscles.
  5. Pause for a moment at the peak of the contraction, then slowly release the cable back to the starting position.
  6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

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 upper back. The biceps and forearms work as secondary muscles. See all upper back exercises or every cable exercise.

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