Setup and loading
Overhand grip.
How to do the dumbbell upright row step by step
- Stand with the dumbbells in front of your thighs.
- Raise them close to your body with your elbows high.
- Stop at chest height and lower.
Form cues
- Elbows higher than your hands
- Close to your body
Common mistakes
- Going above chest height if your shoulder hurts
Sets and reps for your goal
Hypertrophy
3-4 x 8-12 · rest 60-90 s3-4 sets of 6-12 reps (up to 15-20 on isolation exercises) at 65-80% of your max. Rest 1 to 2 minutes.
Get close to failure (0-3 reps in reserve) and control the lowering for 2-3 seconds. Accumulate 10-20 sets per muscle per week.
Max Strength
4-5 x 3-6 · rest 2-3 min3-6 sets of 1-6 reps at 80-90% of your max (1RM). Rest 2 to 5 minutes.
Leave 1-3 reps in reserve. If your technique breaks down, lower the weight: strength is built with good reps.
A guide for healthy adults. Adjust the load to your level and see a professional if you have an injury.
Check your form
Film yourself from the side or ask someone to watch, then tick what you get right.
Sports it suits
Gear for this exercise
- Adjustable dumbbellsSave space and replace a whole dumbbell rack at home.
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