Cable High Row demonstration gif

Instructions:

  • 1Stand in front of the cable machine and grab the high pulley attachments
  • 2Pull back the attachments until your hands are next to your chest, maintaining a slight bend in your knees
  • 3Hold for a second at full contraction, squeezing your back muscles
  • 4Slowly return to the starting position, extending your arms fully
  • 5Try to keep your back straight throughout the course of the exercise

Tips:

  • Focus on pulling your elbows back rather than pulling with your hands to better engage your back muscles
  • Avoid leaning back during the pull; stay upright to reduce risk of injury
  • Exhale when pulling the attachments to your chest and inhale when returning to the starting position
  • Try to keep your body still and avoid swinging during the exercise to maximize effectiveness

Cable High Row: Strengthen Your Back with Precision

The cable high row is an effective exercise designed to target the back muscles while also engaging the shoulders and arms. Using a cable machine, this movement provides a dynamic way to build strength and improve muscular endurance. Whether you're performing a cable high row single arm or executing it seated, this versatile exercise can fit seamlessly into any workout routine.

Muscles Worked

When performing the cable high row, you will primarily engage the following muscles:

  • Latissimus Dorsi
  • Rhomboids
  • Trapezius
  • Posterior Deltoids

Additionally, incorporating variations such as the cable high row with rope or practicing cable high row external rotation can help isolate specific muscle groups for more targeted training.

Exercise Variations

The cable high row can be modified based on your training goals and preferences. For instance:

  • Kneeling variation: This position increases core engagement and stability.
  • One-arm version: Focusing on one side enhances muscle symmetry and unilateral strength.
  • Seated version: This variation provides added support and enables you to focus solely on the upper body.

Tips for Success

To maximize the effectiveness of your cable high row, keep these tips in mind:

  • Maintain a neutral spine and avoid leaning back excessively to prevent strain.
  • Control the weight on both the pull and release to ensure muscle engagement throughout the motion.
  • Adjust the cable height to vary the angle of resistance and target different muscle fibers.

Incorporating the cable high row into your training regimen will not only reinforce your back strength but will also contribute to better posture and overall athletic performance. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced fitness enthusiast, this exercise is a valuable addition to your workout toolbox. Explore both the standard and alternative variations to find what works best for you!

Cable High Row Muscles Worked

Arms

Back

Core

Legs