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Seated cable row: how to do it right

The cable row pulls a handle towards your stomach sitting in front of the low pulley. It builds back thickness with constant tension.

Main muscle
Back
Also works
Biceps, Rear delts
Equipment
Low cable with V-handle
Level
Beginner
Seated cable row: start position
Start position
Seated cable row: end position
End position

Step by step

  1. Sit with your feet on the footrests and knees slightly bent.
  2. Grab the V-handle with straight arms and torso upright.
  3. Pull towards your stomach, driving your elbows back close to your body, chest up.
  4. Return slowly, straightening your arms without rounding your back.

Tip: Pause for a second with the handle touching your stomach.

Common mistakes

Swinging your torso

Leaning back on every rep turns it into a swing. Your torso barely moves.

Rounding your back on the way back

Straighten your arms keeping your back straight.

Shrugging

Pull with your elbows, shoulders down.

Sets and reps

Guide ranges. Start with a weight where the last rep is hard but your technique holds.

GoalSetsRepsRest
Strength3–53–62–3 min
Build muscle3–46–121.5–2 min
Health and fitness2–310–151 min

In GymOrbita you log every set and the app suggests the weight for your next session based on what you did last time.

Alternatives

If the machine is busy or you want a variation:

FAQ

Which handle should I use?

The V-handle is the most common. A wide bar works your upper back more.

General technique information, not a substitute for professional advice. If you have an injury or pain, check with a doctor or physiotherapist first.

Add seated cable row to your routine

GymOrbita has this exercise with its animation: log the weight and reps of every set and track your progress. Free.