Cable Rear Delt Row (with Rope) - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Cable Rear Delt Row (with Rope)

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Cable Rear Delt Row (with Rope).

MediumRear shoulders

About this exercise

The cable rear delt row with rope targets the posterior deltoids and upper back by pulling a rope from a cable machine toward the face. The rope attachment allows the elbows to flare outward, maximizing rear deltoid recruitment and improving shoulder health.

How to Perform

  • Attach a rope to a cable pulley set at approximately face height and stand facing the machine
  • Grip one end of the rope in each hand with a neutral grip and step back to create tension
  • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and a slight bend in your knees
  • Pull the rope toward your face, driving your elbows out and back at shoulder height
  • At the end of the pull, your hands should be beside your ears and elbows flared to the sides
  • Squeeze the rear deltoids and upper back at peak contraction
  • Slowly return to the starting position and repeat

Muscle Activation

Primary
Rear shoulders
Secondary
BicepsSide shouldersOuter forearmTrapezius

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Cable Rear Delt Row (with Rope)

The Cable Rear Delt Row (with Rope) 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.