Cable Seated Underhand Row - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Cable Seated Underhand Row

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Cable Seated Underhand Row.

MediumRear shouldersTrapezius

About this exercise

The Cable Seated Supine Grip Row is a seated cable row variation performed with an underhand (palms-up) grip, which shifts more emphasis onto the lower lats and biceps compared to a standard overhand row. It is an effective back-building exercise for adding width and thickness to the mid and lower back.

How to Perform

  • Attach a straight bar handle to a low cable pulley and sit on the bench facing the machine with feet braced on the foot platform
  • Grasp the bar with an underhand grip, hands roughly shoulder-width apart, and sit upright with a slight forward lean
  • Pull the bar toward your lower abdomen by driving your elbows back and squeezing your lats
  • Hold the contraction at the end of the pull, keeping your chest tall
  • Slowly return the handle forward to the start position, allowing your shoulder blades to protract under control
  • Avoid rounding your lower back at any point during the movement

Muscle Activation

Primary
Rear shouldersTrapeziusMiddle back
Secondary
BicepsOuter forearm

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Cable Seated Underhand Row

The Cable Seated Underhand 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.