Back to library

Exercise Library

Lever Narrow Grip Seated Row

A chest-supported plate-loaded row with a close neutral grip, driving the elbows tight past the ribs to load the lats and mid-back with strict, repeatable form.

BackMachineHorizontal pull
GoLightWeight medialever-narrow-grip-seated-row

Demonstration coming soon

Primary

Latissimus dorsiRhomboids

Secondary

Middle trapeziusRear deltoidsBicepsForearms

Equipment

Machine

Pattern

Horizontal pull

Setup

  1. 01Adjust the seat so the narrow handles line up with the mid-torso.
  2. 02Sit with the chest pressed into the pad and feet on the platform.
  3. 03Take the neutral close grip with both palms facing in.
  4. 04Extend the arms fully and set the shoulder blades before pulling.

Execution

  1. 01Row both handles back toward the lower ribs together.
  2. 02Keep the elbows tight to the body as they pass the torso.
  3. 03Squeeze the shoulder blades together at the back.
  4. 04Return to a full stretch under control without the plates touching down.

Checkpoints

  • -The chest never leaves the pad to cheat the pull.
  • -Elbows stay tucked rather than flaring wide.
  • -Each rep starts from a full arm extension.
  • -The head stays neutral instead of craning forward.

Common mistakes

  • -Rocking the torso back to move heavier loads.
  • -Shortening the stroke and skipping the stretch.
  • -Letting the shoulders roll forward at the bottom without re-setting.
  • -Gripping the handles so hard the forearms fatigue first.

Programming notes

  • -Use 3 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 reps as a primary horizontal pull.
  • -Chest support removes lower back strain, so it pairs well with deadlift-heavy programs.
  • -Add a pause at the ribs when reps start getting loose.

Related exercises

Almost there

Coming soon to iOS & Android

GoLightWeight is in the final stretch. Free to download, no account required to start.

Coming soonApp Store
Coming soonGoogle Play