Single Arm Kettlebell Row: How-to, Tips & More

The Single Arm Kettlebell Row is a beginner compound exercise for your lats. You do it with kettlebells, one side at a time. It is a good fit when your goal is both strength and muscle growth.

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

Muscles worked

Lats muscle

Lats

Primary

Upper back muscle

Upper back

Secondary

Biceps muscle

Biceps

Secondary

How to do the Single Arm Kettlebell Row

  1. Put one hand and knee on a bench, kettlebell in the other hand.
  2. Let the kettlebell hang under your shoulder.
  3. Row it to your hip.
  4. Lower slowly, then switch sides after the set.

Single Arm Kettlebell Row tips

  • Pull with your elbow, not your hand.

Sets and reps

Most lifters do well with 6 to 12 reps per set, and 6 to 12 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

Kettlebells

Type

Compound

Single Arm Kettlebell Row alternatives

More lats exercises

Frequently asked questions

What muscles does the Single Arm Kettlebell Row work?

The Single Arm Kettlebell Row mainly works your lats, with help from your upper back and biceps.

How many sets and reps should I do?

A good starting point is 6 to 12 reps per set, and many lifters get the best results between 6 to 12 reps. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve.

Is the Single Arm Kettlebell Row good for beginners?

Yes. The Single Arm Kettlebell Row 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 Single Arm Kettlebell Row?

You need kettlebells.

Single Arm Kettlebell Row demonstration

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