Exercises / Dumbbells

How to do a one-arm dumbbell row

Back work with support, so your lower back can relax.

BackBicepsDumbbellsLive form check
Man
Woman
Quick answer. Do 3 sets of 10 reps each arm with about 60 seconds rest. Pull the dumbbell up toward your hip. Start with 10–12 kg.

Setup

  1. One hand and knee on a bench, or one hand on the bench and both feet down.
  2. Back flat like a table.

How to do it

  1. Pull the dumbbell up toward your hip.
  2. Elbow goes back and up, close to your body.
  3. Lower all the way until your arm is straight.

Common mistakes

Sets, reps and weight for beginners

Sets3
Reps10 each arm
Rest60 seconds
Starting weightStart with 10–12 kg.
MusclesBack, Biceps
EquipmentDumbbells

When all your sets feel easy with clean form, add the smallest weight step next session. If a set breaks down, keep the weight and own the reps first. Musclo does this for you: it suggests the next weight from your last session.

FAQ

What muscles does the one-arm dumbbell row work?

The one-arm dumbbell row mainly works your back, biceps. Back work with support, so your lower back can relax.

How many reps should a beginner do?

Start with 3 sets of 10 reps each arm, resting about 60 seconds between sets. Add weight or time only when every set looks clean.

How much weight should I use for the one-arm dumbbell row?

Start with 10–12 kg.

What are the most common one-arm dumbbell row mistakes?

Twisting your body to lift it. Pulling to your shoulder instead of your hip. Fix them by slowing down and using a lighter weight first.

Can an app check my one-arm dumbbell row form?

Yes. Musclo's live form check watches your one-arm dumbbell row through your iPhone camera, counts clean reps and tells you what to fix. It runs on the phone, so no video is uploaded.

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