Shoulders·Barbell·Compound
Upright Barbell Row
Shoulders · Barbell
Beginner
Body Part
Shoulders
Equipment
Barbell
Level
Beginner
Type
Compound
Force
Pull
The Upright Barbell Row is a beginner barbell exercise that primarily targets the Shoulders.
Muscles Worked
Shoulders primaryTraps secondary
In Position


How to Do the Upright Barbell Row
- 1Grasp a barbell with an overhand grip that is slightly less than shoulder width. The bar should be resting on the top of your thighs with your arms extended and a slight bend in your elbows. Your back should also be straight. This will be your starting position.
- 2Now exhale and use the sides of your shoulders to lift the bar, raising your elbows up and to the side. Keep the bar close to your body as you raise it. Continue to lift the bar until it nearly touches your chin. Tip: Your elbows should drive the motion, and should always be higher than your forearms. Remember to keep your torso stationary and pause for a second at the top of the movement.
- 3Lower the bar back down slowly to the starting position. Inhale as you perform this portion of the movement.
- 4Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
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Exercise data from the open-source Free Exercise DB. Library last reviewed June 22, 2026 · How these guides are written