Seated Row with Towel - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Seated Row with Towel

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Seated Row with Towel.

EasyRear shouldersTrapezius

About this exercise

The seated row with a towel is a minimalist back exercise performed on the floor using a towel looped around the feet as the resistance anchor. It effectively targets the mid-back and lats with no equipment other than a standard towel.

How to Perform

  • Sit on the floor with your legs extended and loop a towel around the soles of your feet, holding one end in each hand
  • Sit upright with a neutral spine and a slight bend in the knees
  • Pull both ends of the towel toward your lower ribcage, driving your elbows back and squeezing your shoulder blades together at the top
  • Hold the peak contraction for a brief moment
  • Slowly return your arms to the extended position, keeping your back straight throughout
  • Repeat for the desired number of reps

Muscle Activation

Primary
Rear shouldersTrapeziusMiddle back
Secondary
BicepsOuter forearm

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Seated Row with Towel

The Seated Row with Towel 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.