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Last updated March 9, 2026
Bent Over Row (Cable: Rope)
LatsLower BackTeres MajorTrapezius

Bent Over Row (Cable: Rope)

Use a low cable pulley with a rope. Hinge forward and pull the rope to your midsection. Separate your hands at the end for a better squeeze.

Quick facts

Level
Beginner
Mechanic
Compound
Force
Pull
Type
Strength
Injury Risk
Low
Hypertrophy
Very High
Calorie Burn
Medium

Muscle focus

Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.

Primary

Lats

Secondary

Mid Traps

Equipment & setup

What you need and how to position yourself before starting.

Equipment

CableRope

Movement pattern

Bilateral

Posture

Bent-over

Tracking parameters

repsweight

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.

  1. Step 1Setup
    • Stand upright with your feet hip-width apart, facing the cable machine.
    • Attach a rope handle to the low pulley of the cable machine.
  2. Step 2Grab the Rope
    • Using both hands, grasp the rope with an overhand grip, keeping your hands shoulder-width apart.
    • Step back slightly to create tension in the cable, ensuring your arms are fully extended.
  3. Step 3Position Your Body
    • Bend your knees slightly and hinge forward from your hips, maintaining a straight back.
    • Engage your core and retract your shoulder blades, keeping your gaze forward.
  4. Step 4Pull the Rope
    • Pull the rope towards your torso by bending your elbows and driving them back.
    • Keep your elbows close to your body and aim to pull the rope towards your lower rib cage.
  5. Step 5Lower the Rope
    • Slowly extend your arms back to the starting position, maintaining control of the movement.
    • Ensure you keep your back straight and core engaged throughout the motion.
  6. Step 6Repeat
    • Continue to pull and lower the rope for the desired number of repetitions, focusing on maintaining proper form.
  7. Step 7Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your reps, carefully step forward to release tension in the cable.
    • Safely put down the rope handle and ensure the area is clear before leaving.

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Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025