Dumbbell Bent Over Scapula Row - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Dumbbell Bent Over Scapula Row

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Dumbbell Bent Over Scapula Row.

MediumTrapezius

About this exercise

The Dumbbell Bent Over Scapula Row focuses on scapular retraction and protraction in a bent-over position, targeting the mid-back and lats with an emphasis on shoulder blade movement rather than elbow drive. It improves posture, upper-back stability, and scapular control.

How to Perform

  • Stand with feet hip-width apart holding a dumbbell in each hand
  • Hinge forward at the hips until your torso is roughly parallel to the floor, keeping your back flat
  • Let your arms hang straight down with shoulder blades protracted (spread apart)
  • Squeeze your shoulder blades together, retracting the scapulae, without bending the elbows excessively
  • Hold the retracted position for a brief pause, feeling the contraction between your shoulder blades
  • Slowly release and let the shoulder blades protract again before the next rep
  • Maintain a neutral spine and brace your core throughout

Muscle Activation

Primary
Trapezius
Secondary
Rear shouldersMiddle chest

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Dumbbell Bent Over Scapula Row

The Dumbbell Bent Over Scapula 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.