VARIATIONS

Smith Machine Bent Over Row

Smith machine bar pulled toward the lower ribs while bent over

This compound pull targets the rhomboids, lats, and biceps to build upper back thickness and strength. The fixed bar path of the Smith machine allows for stable loading while maintaining a bent-over position.

HOW TO DO IT

  1. Set the Smith bar just below knee height and unlock it.
  2. Hinge at the hips until your torso is nearly parallel to the floor.
  3. Grip the bar with palms facing down and arms fully extended.
  4. Pull the bar toward your lower ribs while keeping elbows tucked.
  5. Squeeze your shoulder blades together at the top of the movement.
  6. Lower the bar under control back to the starting position.

COMMON MISTAKES

  • Rounding the lower back instead of maintaining a flat spine.
  • Using momentum to swing the torso upward during the pull.
  • Shrugging the shoulders up toward the ears at the top.
  • Pulling the bar too high toward the neck instead of the hips.

TIPS

  • Keep your neck neutral by looking at the floor a few feet ahead.
  • Drive your elbows back rather than pulling with your hands.
  • Brace your core tightly to protect your lower back throughout the set.

SAFETY

  • Avoid rounding the lower back to prevent disc injury under load.
  • Do not hyperextend your neck to look up in the mirror.

DETAILS

Muscles
LatsRhomboidsBack
Equipment
Smith Machine
Type
Strength Training
Difficulty
Beginner
Tracked as
Weight & Reps

TECHNIQUE

Base movement
Row
Arms
Both
Arms straight or bent
Bent arms
Hand orientation
Pronated (palms down / away)
Torso lean
Flat, parallel to the floor
Body position
Bent over

SIMILAR EXERCISES

Smith Machine Bent Over Row · 1/3

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