Dumbbell Incline Row
Dumbbell Incline Row is a beginner-level compound in the strength category that primarily works the mid back. It also recruits the biceps, forearms, lats and shoulders. It is performed with dumbbells.
How to do it
- 1Using a neutral grip, lean into an incline bench.
- 2Take a dumbbell in each hand with a neutral grip, beginning with the arms straight. This will be your starting position.
- 3Retract the shoulder blades and flex the elbows to row the dumbbells to your side.
- 4Pause at the top of the motion, and then return to the starting position.
Muscles worked
Primary muscles in filled badges, secondary in grey. Tap for more exercises per muscle.
Tips and common mistakes
- •Keep your core braced and your spine neutral throughout the movement.
- •Add load only once you complete all reps with good form — progressive overload.
- •Initiate the pull from the target muscle rather than jerking with body momentum.
- •Prioritize full range of motion over heavy weight with partial reps.
Sets and reps
For hypertrophy: 3–4 sets × 8–12 reps with 1–2 reps in reserve (RPE 7–9) and 1–2 minutes rest. For strength: 3–5 × 4–6 with longer rest.