Inverted Row with Bent Knee between Chairs - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Inverted Row with Bent Knee between Chairs

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Inverted Row with Bent Knee between Chairs.

MediumRear shouldersTrapezius

About this exercise

The Inverted Row with Bent Knee between Chairs is a bodyweight pulling exercise performed by lying beneath two chairs and rowing your chest up to the edge. The bent-knee position reduces body weight load, making this an accessible variation that develops back strength and biceps with no gym equipment.

How to Perform

  • Position two sturdy chairs shoulder-width apart facing each other and place a broomstick or rod across the seat edges to grip, or grip the chair edges directly
  • Lie on your back beneath the chairs with knees bent and feet flat on the floor
  • Grip the support with an overhand grip, hands slightly wider than shoulder-width
  • Keep your body in a straight line from knees to shoulders and brace your core
  • Pull your chest up toward the bar by driving your elbows toward the floor behind you
  • Squeeze your shoulder blades together at the top of the movement
  • Lower yourself back to the starting position with control

Muscle Activation

Primary
Rear shouldersTrapeziusMiddle back
Secondary
BicepsOuter forearm

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Inverted Row with Bent Knee between Chairs

The Inverted Row with Bent Knee between Chairs 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.