Atlas
One-Arm Dumbbell Row: starting position One-Arm Dumbbell Row: end position

Horizontal Pull · Traps & mid back

One-Arm Dumbbell Row

A horizontal pull exercise that works the traps & mid back. Beginner level, using dumbbells.

BeginnerDumbbellsGymHome

Muscles worked

SecondaryBiceps, Lats, Shoulders

Lats, mid-back, and biceps.

Setup and loading

Dumbbell hanging under your shoulder.

How to do the one-arm dumbbell row step by step

  1. Place one knee and one hand on the bench with your back parallel to the floor.
  2. Pull the dumbbell toward your hip.
  3. Lower until your arm is straight.

Form cues

  • Elbow close to your body
  • Flat back

Common mistakes

  • Rotating your torso
Advertisement

Sets and reps for your goal

Hypertrophy

3-4 x 8-12 · rest 60-90 s

3-4 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 min

3-6 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.

0 of 2

Sports it suits

Gear for this exercise

  • Adjustable dumbbellsSave space and replace a whole dumbbell rack at home.

As an Amazon Associate, Muscle Atlas earns from qualifying purchases.

Variations and similar exercises

Advertisement