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Upright Row (Dumbbell)

Upright Row demonstration

Watch the demo so setup and tempo are clear before you follow the step-by-step cues.

Performing the: A Step-by-Step Tutorial Upright Row

Work through the cues in order so setup, bracing, and reps stay consistent before you add load.

  • Keep your back straight and your chest up, then slowly lift the weight to your chest, leading with your elbows and keeping the bar close to your body.
  • Make sure your elbows always remain higher than your forearms.
  • Pause for a moment when the barbell reaches your chest before slowly lowering the weight back to the starting position.
  • Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, ensuring to maintain proper form throughout the exercise.

Tips for Performing Upright Row

Form reminders that keep range of motion and control in check once the basic pattern feels stable.

  • Proper Grip: Grip is crucial for this exercise. Hold the barbell or dumbbells with an overhand grip that's slightly less than shoulder-width apart. Gripping too wide can put unnecessary strain on your wrists and shoulders, while gripping too narrow can limit your range of motion.
  • Controlled Movement: Avoid the mistake of using momentum to lift the weights. Instead, lift the weights in a slow and controlled manner, focusing on the muscles you are working on. This not only maximizes muscle engagement but also reduces the risk of injury.
  • Elbow Position: Keep your elbows above your hands at all times during the exercise. This engages the correct muscles and prevents shoulder

Can beginners do the Upright Row?

A short framing note on whether this pattern suits newer lifters before you load it heavily.

Yes, beginners can definitely do the Upright Row exercise. However, it's important to use a lighter weight to start and focus on proper form to prevent any potential injuries. It's always a good idea to have a personal trainer or experienced individual demonstrate the exercise first. As with any exercise, beginners should start slow and gradually increase weight and intensity as their strength and technique improve.

What are common variations of the Upright Row?

Compare these progressions when the main pattern is solid or you need a different stimulus with similar equipment.

  • Single-Arm Upright Row: This variation focuses on one arm at a time, allowing for greater focus on the muscle groups in each individual arm.
  • Upright Cable Row: This variation uses a cable machine, which provides consistent resistance throughout the entire movement and can be easier on the joints.
  • Wide-Grip Upright Row: This variation involves holding the barbell with a wider grip, which can target the deltoids more than the standard upright row.
  • Upright Row with Resistance Bands: This variation uses resistance bands instead of weights, providing a different type of resistance and allowing for a greater range of motion.