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§ L · Exercises · BackUpdated 6/2026

Barbell Row (Underhand)

Builds the lats and mid back, with the biceps assisting. A strong horizontal pull improves posture and supports other pulling lifts.

Muscle group
Back
Equipment
Barbell
Exercise type
Compound
Technique
Advanced technique

Muscles worked

§ 01 · Muscles
Primary muscle
Back
Supporting muscles
BicepsLower BackForearm

How to perform

§ 02 · Steps
  1. 01

    Stand bent over in front of the barbell.

  2. 02

    Grip the barbell with an underhand grip (palms facing up).

  3. 03

    Pull the barbell to your chest while squeezing your shoulder blades together.

  4. 04

    Lower the barbell under control.

Beginner's guide

§ 03 · Guide
What it works

Builds the lats and mid back, with the biceps assisting. A strong horizontal pull improves posture and supports other pulling lifts.

What it should feel like

You should feel it in your lats and between your shoulder blades. It should not be felt mostly in your lower back or only in your arms.

Most common mistake

A common mistake is using momentum and rounding your back. Keep your torso steady, squeeze your shoulder blades together, and lower with control.

How to get started at the gym

§ 04 · SisuLift

Barbell Row (Underhand) is ready to go in the SisuLift exercise library. The app builds you a program, suggests starting weights and shows this same animation during your workout at the gym.

  • ·A ready training program based on your goal
  • ·Starting weight suggestions and automatic progression
  • ·Set logging and rest timer at the gym
Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play
SisuLift app workout view

Tips

§ 05 · Tips

Keep your elbows close to your body.

The underhand grip activates the biceps more.

More exercises: Back

§ 06 · Same muscles

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