How to Do Smith Machine Bent Over Row
Step-by-step instructions, muscles worked and workouts that use the smith machine bent over row.

| Main muscles | Upper & Mid Back |
| Also works | Biceps, Lats, Shoulders |
| Equipment | Machine |
| Level | Beginner |
| Type | Strength |
How to do it
- Set the barbell attached to the smith machine to a height that is about 2 inches below your knees.
- Bend your knees slightly and bring your torso forward, by bending at the waist, while keeping the back straight until it is almost parallel to the floor. Tip: Make sure that you keep the head up.
- Now grasp the barbell using an overhand (pronated) grip and unlock it from the smith machine rack. Then let it hang directly in front of you as your arms hang extended perpendicular to the floor and your torso. This is your starting position.
- While keeping the torso stationary, lift the barbell as you breathe out, keeping the elbows close to the body and not doing any force with the forearm other than holding the weights. On the top contracted position, squeeze the back muscles and hold for a second.
- Slowly lower the weight again to the starting position as you inhale.
- Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Form tips
- Start light and own the movement before adding weight.
- Control the lowering phase — don't drop into it.
- Keep breathing; exhale on the hardest part.
- Stop if you feel sharp pain (different from muscle burn).
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