Cable Reverse Grip Straight Back Seated High Row - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Cable Reverse Grip Straight Back Seated High Row

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Cable Reverse Grip Straight Back Seated High Row.

MediumRear shouldersTrapezius

About this exercise

The cable reverse grip straight back seated high row is a back exercise performed at a lat pulldown station, pulling a bar toward the upper chest while keeping the torso upright. The reverse (underhand) grip increases biceps involvement and helps recruit the lower portion of the lats. Maintaining a straight back throughout the movement protects the spine and maximizes lat engagement.

How to Perform

  • Sit at the lat pulldown station and attach a straight bar to the high cable
  • Grip the bar with an underhand (palms-facing-up) shoulder-width grip
  • Sit tall with your back straight, chest up, and feet flat on the floor
  • Retract your shoulder blades and begin pulling the bar toward your upper chest
  • Keep your elbows pointing downward and back as you row
  • Pull until the bar reaches chest level and your shoulder blades are fully squeezed together
  • Slowly extend your arms to return to the starting position under control
  • Repeat for the desired number of repetitions

Muscle Activation

Primary
Rear shouldersTrapeziusMiddle back
Secondary
BicepsOuter forearm

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Cable Reverse Grip Straight Back Seated High Row

The Cable Reverse Grip Straight Back Seated High 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.