Smith Machine Row

Smith Machine Row is a beginner compound pull using smith machine. It loads Back.

Why this lift

The Smith Machine Row is a beginner compound pull lift. It primarily loads Back. Lats, Biceps, Traps, Shoulders help. You need smith machine. Most programs place it near the start of a session, while you are fresh. You may also hear it called Smith Machine Rows.

Rows and hinges load the upper back. If your bench stalls, this is often why — you cannot press what you cannot set. If you are new to the gym, learn it with a light load and keep it.

Muscles worked

• Primary: Back
• Secondary: Lats, Biceps, Traps, Shoulders

Setup

• Take smith machine with a grip you can finish. Chest up, shoulders away from the ears.

How to do it

1. Pull the load to the intended contact point. Squeeze Back.
2. Lower to a full stretch without dumping the shoulders forward.

Coaching cues

• Elbows first, not a wrist yank.
• Keep the torso angle honest.

Common mistakes

• Shrugging the traps and shortening the range. Depress the scapulae, then pull.

How to program it

Treat the Smith Machine Row as a main lift: 3–5 working sets, add load or a rep when the last set still looks like the first. Leave isolation work for after.

If the Smith Machine Row does not agree with you, Barbell Incline Row trains Back with a different setup.

Related lifts

• Barbell Incline Row Back
• Barbell Inverted Row Back
• Barbell Rack Pull Back
• Barbell Row Back
• Bent Over T-Bar Row Back
• Bent Over Underhand Grip T-Bar Row Back

FAQ

What muscles does the Smith Machine Row work?

The Smith Machine Row works Back (primary), Lats, Biceps, Traps, Shoulders (secondary).

What equipment do I need for the Smith Machine Row?

You need smith machine.

Is the Smith Machine Row suitable for beginners?

Yes. The Smith Machine Row is marked beginner in this catalog. Start lighter than you think and film one set from the side.