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StrengthbeginnerDumbbell

One-Arm Dumbbell Row

Primary
Middle Back
Secondary
Biceps, Lats, Shoulders
Equipment
Dumbbell
Level
beginner

One-Arm Dumbbell Row demonstration

One-Arm Dumbbell Row, starting position
One-Arm Dumbbell Row, starting position
One-Arm Dumbbell Row, finishing position
One-Arm Dumbbell Row, finishing position

How to Perform

  1. 1Choose a flat bench and place a dumbbell on each side of it.
  2. 2Place the right leg on top of the end of the bench, bend your torso forward from the waist until your upper body is parallel to the floor, and place your right hand on the other end of the bench for support.
  3. 3Use the left hand to pick up the dumbbell on the floor and hold the weight while keeping your lower back straight. The palm of the hand should be facing your torso. This will be your starting position.
  4. 4Pull the resistance straight up to the side of your chest, keeping your upper arm close to your side and keeping the torso stationary. Breathe out as you perform this step. Tip: Concentrate on squeezing the back muscles once you reach the full contracted position. Also, make sure that the force is performed with the back muscles and not the arms. Finally, the upper torso should remain stationary and only the arms should move. The forearms should do no other work except for holding the dumbbell; therefore do not try to pull the dumbbell up using the forearms.
  5. 5Lower the resistance straight down to the starting position. Breathe in as you perform this step.
  6. 6Repeat the movement for the specified amount of repetitions.
  7. 7Switch sides and repeat again with the other arm.

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
  • •This is a great exercise for beginners - focus on form over reps
  • •As a compound movement, this exercise works multiple muscle groups efficiently

Muscles Worked

Front
Back
Middle BackBicepsLatsShoulders

Exercise Details

Category
Strength
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Level
beginner

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Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does One-Arm Dumbbell Row work?

One-Arm Dumbbell Row primarily targets the Middle Back. It also works the Biceps, Lats, Shoulders as secondary muscles.

What equipment do I need for One-Arm Dumbbell Row?

One-Arm Dumbbell Row requires Dumbbell.

Is One-Arm Dumbbell Row suitable for beginners?

Yes, One-Arm Dumbbell Row is suitable for beginners. It's classified as a beginner-level exercise.