Back to exercises
StrengthintermediateCable

Elevated Cable Rows

Primary
Lats
Secondary
Middle Back, Traps
Equipment
Cable
Level
intermediate

Elevated Cable Rows demonstration

Elevated Cable Rows, starting position
Elevated Cable Rows, starting position
Elevated Cable Rows, finishing position
Elevated Cable Rows, finishing position

How to Perform

  1. 1Get a platform of some sort (it can be an aerobics or calf raise platform) that is around 4-6 inches in height.
  2. 2Place it on the seat of the cable row machine.
  3. 3Sit down on the machine and place your feet on the front platform or crossbar provided making sure that your knees are slightly bent and not locked.
  4. 4Lean over as you keep the natural alignment of your back and grab the V-bar handles.
  5. 5With your arms extended pull back until your torso is at a 90-degree angle from your legs. Your back should be slightly arched and your chest should be sticking out. You should be feeling a nice stretch on your lats as you hold the bar in front of you. This is the starting position of the exercise.
  6. 6Keeping the torso stationary, pull the handles back towards your torso while keeping the arms close to it until you touch the abdominals. Breathe out as you perform that movement. At that point you should be squeezing your back muscles hard. Hold that contraction for a second and slowly go back to the original position while breathing in.
  7. 7Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Video Tutorial

Tips & Common Mistakes

  • •Focus on controlled movements rather than speed or momentum
  • •Maintain proper breathing - exhale during the exertion phase
  • •Start with lighter weight to master the form before progressing
  • •As a compound movement, this exercise works multiple muscle groups efficiently

Muscles Worked

Front
Back
LatsMiddle BackTraps

Exercise Details

Category
Strength
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Level
intermediate

Want workout programs?

Get structured workout plans using this exercise and more.

Browse Programs

Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Elevated Cable Rows work?

Elevated Cable Rows primarily targets the Lats. It also works the Middle Back, Traps as secondary muscles.

What equipment do I need for Elevated Cable Rows?

Elevated Cable Rows requires Cable.

Is Elevated Cable Rows suitable for beginners?

Elevated Cable Rows is classified as intermediate level. Beginners should master foundational movements first.

Alternatives to Elevated Cable Rows

Substitute any of these when the equipment is taken or unavailable. They train the same primary muscles.