Smith Machine Upright Row - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Smith Machine Upright Row

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Smith Machine Upright Row.

MediumSide shoulders

About this exercise

The Smith Machine Upright Row is a compound pulling movement that targets the upper trapezius and lateral deltoids, performed with the bar guided by the Smith machine. The fixed path helps keep the bar close to the body throughout the lift and allows you to focus on driving the elbows high.

How to Perform

  • Set the Smith machine bar to hip height, load the appropriate weight, and stand facing the bar
  • Grip the bar with an overhand grip, hands about shoulder-width apart or slightly narrower
  • Unrack the bar and let it hang in front of your thighs at arm's length
  • Pull the bar straight up along your body, leading with your elbows until they reach ear level
  • Keep the bar close to your torso throughout the movement
  • Pause briefly at the top of the movement
  • Lower the bar slowly back to the starting position under control
  • Repeat for the desired number of reps, then re-rack

Muscle Activation

Primary
Side shoulders
Secondary
BicepsRear shouldersFront shouldersOuter forearmMiddle chestTrapezius

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Smith Machine Upright Row

The Smith Machine Upright 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.