Upper back exercise · smith machine
Smith Bent Over Row
The smith bent over row is a smith machine exercise that targets the upper back, with the biceps and forearms assisting.
- Target muscle
- Upper back
- Also works
- Biceps, forearms
- Equipment
- Smith machine
- Body part
- Back
How to do the smith bent over row
- Set up the smith machine with the bar at hip height.
- Stand facing the bar with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Bend your knees slightly and hinge forward at the hips, keeping your back straight.
- Grasp the bar with an overhand grip, hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
- Pull the bar towards your lower chest, squeezing your shoulder blades together.
- Pause for a moment at the top, then slowly lower the bar back down to the starting position.
- 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 smith machine exercise.
