Dumbbell Incline Bench Row

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Intermediate

Chest-supported dumbbell row that targets lats, rhomboids, and mid-traps to build upper back strength and thickness; minimizes lower back involvement for better isolation.

About Exercise

Equipment

Dumbbells, Incline Bench

Difficulty

2/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Lats, Traps

Secondary Muscles

Biceps, Forearms

Popularity Score

8

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy

Training Style

Bodybuilding
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

Yes

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Lats

9/10

Teres Major

Traps

8/10

Mid Traps, Lower Traps

Shoulders

7/10

Rear Delts

Biceps

5/10

Forearms

3/10

Flexors

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Set an adjustable incline bench to 45 degrees. Lie chest down on the bench with feet planted, holding a dumbbell in each hand with arms extended toward the floor.

  1. Drive elbows back and up toward your hips.
  2. Squeeze shoulder blades together at the top.
  3. Pause briefly to contract back muscles.
  4. Lower dumbbells slowly to full arm extension.
  5. Keep chest pressed against the bench throughout.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Lead with elbows
  • Squeeze blades tight
  • Avoid shoulder shrug
  • Maintain neutral wrists

Breathing

Inhale as you lower the dumbbells; exhale as you pull them up. Brace core before each rep.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

Start with arms fully extended hanging down; pull until elbows align with torso midline or slightly past.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid excessive weight to prevent form breakdown
  • Keep shoulders depressed away from ears
  • Stop if shoulder pain occurs
  • Use lighter loads if grip fails first

Spotting

Spotting not typically required due to bench support; assist from sides if needed for heavy sets.

Common Mistakes

  • Swinging with momentum
  • Lifting head off bench
  • Using arms instead of back
  • Incomplete range on return

When to Avoid

  • Acute shoulder impingement
  • Lower back strain

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate shoulder extension
  • Thoracic spine mobility

Build Up First

  • Basic pulling mechanics
  • Stable core engagement

Also known as

Incline Dumbbell Row, Chest Supported Dumbbell Row, Prone Dumbbell Row

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