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Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Row

The barbell reverse grip incline bench row targets the upper back and also engages the biceps and forearms. It is performed on an incline bench with a reverse grip on the barbell, focusing on pulling the weight towards the upper abdomen while maintaining a strong, stable posture.

Quick Facts

Body PartsBack
Target MusclesUpper Back
Secondary MusclesBiceps and Forearms
EquipmentBarbell
DifficultyIntermediate
Exercise TypeStrength
BilateralYes

How to Do Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Row

Follow these step-by-step instructions to perform Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Row with proper form and technique.

  1. Set up an incline bench at a 45-degree angle.
  2. Sit on the bench facing the backrest with your chest against it.
  3. Grab the barbell with a reverse grip (palms facing down) and hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
  4. Keep your back straight and core engaged.
  5. Pull the barbell towards your upper abdomen, squeezing your shoulder blades together.
  6. Pause for a moment at the top of the movement.
  7. Slowly lower the barbell back to the starting position.
  8. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Muscles Worked

Understanding which muscles Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Row targets helps you integrate it effectively into your training program.

Target Muscles

These are the main muscles responsible for performing the movement and receive the greatest training stimulus.

Upper Back

Secondary Muscles

These muscles assist in the movement and receive secondary training benefits.

BicepsForearms

Benefits of Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Row

Incorporating Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Row into your workout routine offers numerous advantages for strength, muscle development, and overall fitness.

  • Upper Back Development: Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Row directly targets and strengthens the Upper Back, promoting muscle growth and improved functional strength.
  • Secondary Muscle Engagement: This exercise also works the Biceps and Forearms, providing additional training stimulus without extra exercises.
  • Progressive Overload Potential: Barbells allow for precise weight increments, making it easier to progressively overload the muscles over time for consistent strength gains.
  • Functional Strength: Strength exercises like Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Row build real-world strength that transfers to daily activities and athletic performance.

Safety Tips and Precautions

Performing Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Row safely is essential for preventing injuries and ensuring long-term progress.

  • Warm Up Properly: Before performing Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Row, complete 5-10 minutes of light cardio followed by dynamic stretches targeting the Upper Back and surrounding muscles.
  • Prioritize Form Over Weight: Never sacrifice proper technique for heavier weights. Poor form significantly increases injury risk and reduces the exercise's effectiveness.
  • Use Safety Equipment: When lifting heavy, always use a power rack with safety pins set at the appropriate height, and consider using a spotter for maximal attempts.
  • Protect Your Lower Back: Maintain a neutral spine throughout the movement. Never round your lower back under load.
  • Respect Your Range of Motion: Work within your current mobility limits. Gradually improve flexibility over time rather than forcing deeper positions.
  • Don't Hold Your Breath: Maintain consistent breathing throughout the exercise. Exhale during the exertion phase and inhale during the easier phase.
  • Know When to Stop: End your set when you can no longer maintain proper form. Training to absolute failure on every set increases injury risk.
  • Allow Adequate Recovery: The Upper Back typically need 48-72 hours to recover after intense training. Avoid training the same muscle group on consecutive days.

Tracking Your Progress

To make consistent gains with Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Row, track these metrics during your workouts:

Sets

Track the number of sets you complete. Most training programs recommend 3-5 sets per exercise.

Reps

Record your repetitions per set. Adjust rep ranges based on your goals: 1-5 for strength, 6-12 for hypertrophy, 12+ for endurance.

Weight

Log the weight used for progressive overload. Aim to gradually increase weight while maintaining proper form.

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