WorkoutCard Logo WORKOUTCARD

Library / Upper Back

Chest-Supported Machine Row

Machine · Horizontal Pull · Compound

Upper BackLats Rear DeltoidBicepsRhomboids Joint friendly

Default prescription & biomechanics

Primary muscles
Upper Back, Lats
Secondary muscles
Rear Deltoid, Biceps, Rhomboids
Equipment
Machine
Movement pattern
Horizontal Pull (Pull force)
Difficulty
Beginner
Working rep range
8-12 reps per set
Between-set interval
90 seconds rest
Intensity & MET
Moderate (5.2 MET)

Step-by-step coaching cues

  1. Adjust the seat and chest pad so you can just reach the handles with protracted shoulders.
  2. Keep your sternum glued to the pad throughout the movement.
  3. Pull the handles back and squeeze your shoulder blades together before a controlled return.

Joint & safety considerations

No specific joint contraindications are flagged for Chest-Supported Machine Row. Maintain controlled tempo across the full range of motion and stop the set if sharp joint pain occurs.

Biomechanical alternatives & swaps

Used by the in-app Swap sheet when your equipment is occupied or when adjusting exercise difficulty.

Exercise Relationship Equipment
Band Bent Over Row Bands swap Bands
Barbell Incline Row Barbell swap Barbell
Bodyweight Inverted Row Bodyweight swap Bodyweight
Cable Bent Over Row Cable swap Cable
Cable One Arm Bent Over Row Cable swap Cable
Cable Seated High Row V Bar Cable swap Cable

From the WorkoutCard biomechanical library (613 verified movements). For general strength and conditioning education, not medical or physiotherapy advice.