How to Do Upright Barbell Row
Step-by-step instructions, muscles worked and workouts that use the upright barbell row.

| Main muscles | Shoulders |
| Also works | Traps |
| Equipment | Barbell |
| Level | Beginner |
| Type | Strength |
How to do it
- Grasp a barbell with an overhand grip that is slightly less than shoulder width. The bar should be resting on the top of your thighs with your arms extended and a slight bend in your elbows. Your back should also be straight. This will be your starting position.
- Now exhale and use the sides of your shoulders to lift the bar, raising your elbows up and to the side. Keep the bar close to your body as you raise it. Continue to lift the bar until it nearly touches your chin. Tip: Your elbows should drive the motion, and should always be higher than your forearms. Remember to keep your torso stationary and pause for a second at the top of the movement.
- Lower the bar back down slowly to the starting position. Inhale as you perform this portion of the movement.
- 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).
Workouts with this exercise
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Gear for this exercise
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