When it comes to sculpting a powerful back, few exercises are as effective and versatile as the barbell row. A staple in bodybuilding and strength training routines, this compound movement engages a wide range of muscles, from the lats to the rhomboids, and even the lower back. However, within this exercise lies a choice that could significantly impact your training results and goals: overhand vs underhand barbell row. Both variations target the back muscles differently and come with their own sets of advantages. This article will explore these differences, helping you decide which grip suits your workout regimen best.

Understanding Overhand Barbell Rows

The overhand or pronated grip barbell row is performed with the palms facing down towards the ground. This grip variation places a greater emphasis on the upper back muscles, like the rhomboids and traps, and less on the biceps. It's typically considered a more challenging version of the row due to the reduced involvement of the biceps, which are generally targeted more on the muscles of the upper back. This makes the overhand grip an excellent choice for those looking to enhance upper back strength and thickness.

Furthermore, Hold the barbell with an overhand grip, slightly wider than shoulder-width, making it an effective exercise for improving back width. The form is crucial to avoid injury and to target the intended muscle groups properly. A slight bend in the knees, a straight back, and pulling the bar towards the lower part of the chest will ensure maximum engagement of the back muscles.

Delving into Underhand Barbell Rows

The underhand or supinated grip barbell row, on the other hand, turns the palms up and brings the biceps into play more significantly. This variation is often regarded as less strict than its overhand counterpart due to the increased assistance from the biceps, allowing for heavier weights to be lifted. The underhand grip shifts the focus slightly towards the lower lats and also provides a serious workout for the biceps, making it a dual-purpose exercise.

Some users prefer the underhand grip for its ability to create a stronger mind-muscle connection with the lats, which can be beneficial for muscle growth. The emphasis on the lower back is reduced, making this variation a good choice for individuals with lower back issues, provided it's performed with proper form. Keeping the elbows close to the body and squeezing the shoulder blades together at the top of the movement will maximize the engagement of the target muscles.

Choosing Between Overhand and Underhand Barbell Rows

The choice between overhand and underhand barbell rows ultimately comes down to your specific training goals. Are you looking to build bicep strength alongside your back? Are you more concerned about upper back thickness or improving the width of your lats? Your answers to these questions should guide your selection. Additionally, incorporating both variations into your workout regimen could provide a comprehensive back training routine, addressing a wider array of muscle fibers and promoting balanced muscle development.

It's worth noting that regardless of the grip choice, proper form remains paramount to avoid injury and ensure maximal muscle engagement. Novice lifters especially should focus on mastering the technique with lighter weights before progressing.

Moreover, engaging in a consistent mobility and stretching routine can enhance the range of motion and flexibility, further maximizing the benefits of the barbell row, irrespective of the grip variation chosen.

The debate between overhand vs underhand barbell row may never have a definitive winner, as both bring unique advantages to the table. Understanding and respecting these differences can allow you to tailor your back workouts more precisely to your goals, leading to better aesthetics, strength, and overall muscle health. As with any fitness journey, experimentation, and adaptation are key to discovering what works best for your body. Thus, don't hesitate to vary your grip and test the waters on both sides of this rowing debate to fully capitalize on the potential of this indispensable exercise.


Best sellers

MAJOR FITNESS Adjustable Bench | 1300Lbs Capacity Weight Bench PLT01 Major Fitness adjustable weight bench

MAJOR FITNESS Adjustable Bench | 1300Lbs Capacity Weight Bench PLT01

【Commercial Weight Bench】MAJOR Adjustable Bench PLT01 was tested by most fitness experts to design a weight bench that meets most training requirements. It's called PLT01. This is your best choice if you need to equip your home gym. Its durability is beyond your imagination. 【About PLT01】17.7" comfortable height by commercial standards. Adopts a unique triangular structure design and commercial-grade square steel. After thousands of tests, the maximum load is up to 1300 pounds to ensure safety for workouts every time. 9 backrest positions and 4 seat positions allow you to adjust to the position you want at any time. 【Powerful Support from Commercial Quality】No need to adjust the position with any knobs or pin, None of these provide effective protection during training. As for the PLT01, you just lift it to adjust it to your desired position. Additionally, Our backrest support bar features a dual-track design that provides extreme stability and safety for your training. 【Commercial Quality Soft Padding】The material is the same as the gym equipment; the cushion design of PLT01 will be larger, 31.5" long, 8.3" wide, and 2.5" thick cushion meet most people's needs. The PLT01 is fully ergonomically designed. 【Easy Assemble & Move】Weight bench is almost completely assembled. You only need to spend a few minutes screwing on the screws to get a commercial-quality weight bench. The bench had an extra handle and two wheels for you quickly move it in the home gym.
Regular price
From $259.99
Sale price
From $259.99
Regular price
$399.99
Unit price
 per 
MAJOR FITNESS All-In-One Home Gym Power Rack F22 home gym power rack raptor f22 black front view

MAJOR FITNESS All-In-One Home Gym Power Rack F22

Ultimate Fusion of Power and Aesthetics Perfect for Intermediate to Advanced Users Enhanced Versatility with 6 Band Pegs Ultra-stable Structure Dual Independent Pulley System 17 Height Adjustable Holes 800 lbs Reinforced Safety Arms Capacity Max Capacity on Pulley System 300 lbs on Each Side
Regular price
From $929.99
Sale price
From $929.99
Regular price
$929.99
Unit price
 per 
MAJOR FITNESS All-In-One Home Gym Smith Machine Spirit B52 Major Fitness smith machine home gym spirit b52

MAJOR FITNESS All-In-One Home Gym Smith Machine Spirit B52

5-in-1 Strength Training System in a Single Machine Supports Free Weight and Smith Machine Workouts Upgraded Adjustable Foot Plate and 6 Band Pegs Premium Cable Pulley System for functional Training Independent Dual Pulley System for multiple user workouts Heavy-Duty build for safe and steady usage  
Regular price
From $1,499.99
Sale price
From $1,499.99
Regular price
$1,499.99
Unit price
 per 
MAJOR FITNESS All-In-One Home Gym Power Rack PLM03 MAJOR FITNESS All-In-One Home Gym Power Rack PLM03

MAJOR FITNESS All-In-One Home Gym Power Rack PLM03

EXCELLENT QUALITY: Made of 50 X 70mm commercial steel square frame with a thickness of 2mm. The product weighs 255lbs with 16 reinforcing tabs which increase its stability during training. Cage size - 66.9”L×63”W×84.3”H | Max user weight - 220lbs. | Max capacity on safety bar - 700lbs. | Max capacity on cable 300lbs. | Max capacity on dip bar - 350lbs. | Max capacity on pull-ups bar - 400lbs. ATTACHMENT INCLUDE: The package comes with cable bar, pin/pipe safety set, j-hooks, landmine, dip bars, t bar, lat bar attachment, band pegs and an extra standard barbell holder, providing a variety of exercises for example wide & narrow lat pull-down, landmine movements, seated cable row, bench press, squat, dead-lifts, bicep curl, triceps extensions, pull-ups, chin-ups, dips and more. CABLE CROSSOVER MACHINE: With nylon-coated great quality cables, the ratio of weight to pull is very close to 2:1. 15 height-adjustable holes provide more specific training. Band Pegs on both sides can provide effective resistance training when you squat or bench press. In addition, the weight plate bracket of the cable crossover machine fits the 2" Olympic or 1" standard weight plate. OUR MISSION: The original aspiration of MAJOR Fitness brand is simple——to create multi-functional and cost-effective cages for fitness enthusiasts and provide an integrated multi-function system for people who love home fitness. If you have any questions, you can contact us through email, and we will provide you with a satisfactory solution.
Regular price
From $929.99
Sale price
From $929.99
Regular price
$929.99
Unit price
 per 
MAJOR FITNESS Low Bounce Bumper Plates Olympic Weight Plates Set MAJOR FITNESS Low Bounce Bumper Plates Olympic Weight Plates Set

MAJOR FITNESS Low Bounce Bumper Plates Olympic Weight Plates Set

MAJOR Olympic Weight Plates Set fits all Olympic barbells with 2-inch sleeves.  A good bumper plate set is the centerpiece for modern HIT training. Perform Olympic lifts, squats, and deadlifts safely and confidently with our tough. Constructed from high-quality rubber with low bounce, these plates are designed to withstand repeated drops, protecting both your flooring and your bars. Expertly designed stainless steel "hooked" insert that remains firmly seated, keeps balance. Color-coded for easy identification from a distance, Perfect for large training facilities, garage gyms, and school weight rooms.
Regular price
From $199.99
Sale price
From $199.99
Regular price
Unit price
 per 
MAJOR FITNESS 7ft 20kg Home Gym Barbell MAJOR FITNESS 7ft 20kg Home Gym Barbell

MAJOR FITNESS 7ft 20kg Home Gym Barbell

MAJOR 7ft Olympic Barbell bar built from solid alloy steel, ensure strength and durability. Silvery is finished with chrome.Black is  finished with electrophoresis. Diamond knurling for a secure grip; Rotating sleeves to reduce pressure on wrists and forearms. Get a full body workout or target specific muscle groups, great for short people to do squat, hip thrust, dead lift. Perfect fit for home gym. Measures 86.6 inches in overall length; between the sleeves length is 52 inches; 16 inches loadable sleeve length; 2-inch sleeve diameter to accommodate Olympic plate(2-inch); weights approximately 45lb and can support a weight capacity of up to 750lbs. The superior design of our Olympic Weight Bar allows for a wide variety of workouts, all designed to help you gain lean body mass, lose fat, lower your overall weight and improve your general fitness level and health condition.
Regular price
$259.99
Sale price
$259.99
Regular price
Unit price
 per 
MAJOR FITNESS All-In-One Home Gym Folding Power Rack Lightning F35 Major Fitness home gym power rack lightning f35 black front view

MAJOR FITNESS All-In-One Home Gym Folding Power Rack Lightning F35

Unique Foldable Design 4 Functional Systems Integration 7 Adjustable Folding Angles 15 Adjustable Height Options Double Pulley System Various Practical Attachments Included
Regular price
From $949.99
Sale price
From $949.99
Regular price
$0.00
Unit price
 per 
MAJOR FITNESS All-In-One Home Gym Smith Machine SML07 MAJOR FITNESS All-In-One Home Gym Smith Machine SML07

MAJOR FITNESS All-In-One Home Gym Smith Machine SML07

Meet the SML07 – your great fitness ally! This innovative All-In-One Smith Machine is a revolutionary addition to home gyms, merging up to five strength training stations into one compact unit. The SML07 seamlessly integrates a power rack, Smith machine, cable pulley system, multi-grip pull-up bar, and a 360° landmine, all in one versatile piece of equipment. Constructed from 2x2” 14-gauge steel and boasting a rackable capacity of 1,000lbs, the SML07 Smith machine provides a safe, sturdy, and adaptable setting for strength training. Fed up with waiting for equipment in crowded commercial gyms? It's time to establish your own home gym, offering safety and privacy. The SML07 All-In-One Smith Machine serves as a comprehensive solution for your full-body weight and resistance workouts – ideal for everyone from beginners to fitness enthusiasts aiming to enhance their strength and muscle development!
Regular price
From $1,399.99
Sale price
From $1,399.99
Regular price
$1,399.99
Unit price
 per 
Major Fitness Leg Press Hack Squat Machine AH1 Major Fitness hack squat leg press machine Cobra AH1

Major Fitness Leg Press Hack Squat Machine AH1

Regular price
From $1,399.99
Sale price
From $1,399.99
Regular price
$1,399.99
Unit price
 per 

Recommended

How to Achieve Powerful, Defined Legs from Home with the Leg Press Hack Squat
Jhon Kenneth Delos Reyes·
How to Achieve Powerful, Defined Legs from Home with the Leg Press Hack Squat

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Right Leg Press Hack Squat Machine for You
Jhon Kenneth Delos Reyes·
The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Right Leg Press Hack Squat Machine for You

No More Judgement Zones: Train in Confidence with a Major Fitness Home Gym
Jhon Kenneth Delos Reyes·
No More Judgement Zones: Train in Confidence with a Major Fitness Home Gym


Leave a comment

All comments are moderated before being published.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.