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Shoulders exercise · cable

Cable Upright Row

The cable upright row is a cable exercise that targets the shoulders (deltoids), with the traps and biceps assisting.

Animated demonstration of the cable upright row
Cable Upright Row — demonstration
Target muscle
Delts
Also works
Traps, biceps
Equipment
Cable
Body part
Shoulders

How to do the cable upright row

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and hold the cable attachment with an overhand grip.
  2. Keep your back straight and your core engaged throughout the exercise.
  3. Pull the cable attachment straight up towards your chin, leading with your elbows.
  4. Pause for a moment at the top, squeezing your shoulder blades together.
  5. Slowly lower the cable attachment back down 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 shoulders (deltoids). The traps and biceps work as secondary muscles. See all shoulder exercises or every cable exercise.

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