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TRX High Row

Intermediate
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TRX High Row is a suspension pulling exercise targeting mid traps and rear deltoids to build upper back strength and posture; adjust by body angle for progression.

About Exercise

Equipment

Others

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Traps, Shoulders

Secondary Muscles

Biceps, Forearms

Accessory Muscles

Abs

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Stability

Training Style

Functional Training
Calisthenics

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Traps

9/10

Mid Traps

Shoulders

8/10

Rear Delts

Lats

7/10

Biceps

4/10

Forearms

3/10

Abs

2/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Adjust TRX straps to hip height. Face the anchor, grasp handles with neutral grip, and step back until arms are extended and body is inclined.

  1. Drive elbows back and out to shoulder height.
  2. Squeeze shoulder blades together as you pull chest toward handles.
  3. Keep body in a straight plank line.
  4. Lower body slowly with control, extending arms fully.
  5. Repeat for reps, maintaining tension.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Squeeze blades together
  • Elbows high and wide
  • Plank body straight
  • Core tight always

Breathing

Inhale as you lower your body; exhale as you pull up and squeeze.

Tempo

3-1-1

Range of Motion

Start with arms fully extended; pull until elbows form 90 degrees and hands reach shoulder level; lower to full extension without sagging.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Secure anchor before starting
  • Stop if shoulder pain occurs
  • Engage core to protect spine
  • Check straps for wear

Spotting

No spotter needed; use self-assisted angle adjustments for safety.

Common Mistakes

  • Sagging hips
  • Using momentum to swing
  • Dropping elbows low
  • Arching lower back

When to Avoid

  • Shoulder impingement
  • Acute back pain

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder flexion for grip
  • Ankle dorsiflexion for stance

Build Up First

  • Basic plank hold
  • Familiarity with bodyweight rows

Also known as

TRX Upper Row, Suspension High Row, TRX Face Pull Row

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