High Row Machine: How-to, Tips & More

The High Row Machine is a beginner compound exercise for your upper back. You do it with high row machine. It is a good fit when your goal is muscle growth.

Besides the upper back, it also works your lats and biceps, so it fits well in a session that trains those muscles together.

Muscles worked

Upper back muscle

Upper back

Primary

Lats muscle

Lats

Secondary

Biceps muscle

Biceps

Secondary

How to do the High Row Machine

  1. Sit with your thighs under the pad and grip the handles overhead.
  2. Pull the handles down and back toward your hips.
  3. Squeeze your shoulder blades down.
  4. Let them rise slowly.

High Row Machine tips

  • Keep your chest up and still.

Sets and reps

Most lifters do well with 8 to 15 reps per set, and 8 to 15 reps is where this exercise tends to work best. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve on every set, and add weight once you can complete all your sets at the top of the range. It also works well in a superset with an exercise for the opposite muscles. You can finish with a drop set when you want extra volume.

Equipment

High row machine

Type

Compound

High Row Machine alternatives

More upper back exercises

Frequently asked questions

What muscles does the High Row Machine work?

The High Row Machine mainly works your upper back, with help from your lats and biceps.

How many sets and reps should I do?

A good starting point is 8 to 15 reps per set, and many lifters get the best results between 8 to 15 reps. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve.

Is the High Row Machine good for beginners?

Yes. The High Row Machine is considered beginner and is a good choice if you are new to training. Start light and focus on form.

What equipment do I need for the High Row Machine?

You need high row machine.

High Row Machine demonstration

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