Cable Palm Rotational Row - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Cable Palm Rotational Row

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Cable Palm Rotational Row.

MediumRear shouldersTrapezius

About this exercise

The Cable Palm Rotational Row is a seated cable exercise where the grip rotates from an overhand position at the start to a neutral or underhand position at the finish. This rotation engages additional stabilizing muscles of the shoulder and reinforces proper scapular mechanics through a full range of motion.

How to Perform

  • Attach a single D-handle to a low cable pulley and sit facing the machine
  • Grip the handle with your palm facing down (pronated grip) at arm's length
  • Sit tall with a slight forward lean and a neutral spine
  • Begin pulling by driving your elbow back, simultaneously rotating your forearm so your palm faces inward or upward at the peak of the row
  • Squeeze your lat and retract your scapula at the end of the pull
  • Slowly reverse the motion, rotating your palm back to the overhand position as your arm extends
  • Repeat for all prescribed reps before switching sides if performed unilaterally

Muscle Activation

Primary
Rear shouldersTrapeziusMiddle back
Secondary
BicepsOuter forearmMiddle chest

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Cable Palm Rotational Row

The Cable Palm Rotational Row is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.