Single Arm Dumbbell Bent-Over Scapula Row

Easy
UnilateralNeeds: Bench, sturdy chair or table edge

Also known as: Single Arm Bent-Over Dumbbell Scapular Row

Expert Advice

Expect only a small dumbbell lift. Chasing the height of a regular row turns this into an arm pull rather than a shoulder-blade movement.

How-to-do Steps

  1. Brace your nonworking hand and knee on a flat bench, sturdy chair, or table edge.
  2. Plant your working-side foot and hold one dumbbell with your palm facing inward.
  3. Keep your torso roughly horizontal and let your working arm hang nearly straight beneath your shoulder.
  4. Draw your working shoulder blade toward your spine without bending your elbow further.
  5. Slowly release your shoulder blade forward, keeping your torso still and spine neutral.
  6. Complete the prescribed reps on this side, then switch your support and working arm.

Common Mistakes

  • Torso rotates upwardFix: keep your chest facing the floor throughout the movement.
  • Shoulder shrugs toward your earFix: keep your neck long as the shoulder blade moves.

Coach Cues

Shoulder blade toward spineKeep elbow nearly straightChest faces the floor

Short reminders to keep in mind during every set.

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Muscles Worked

Single Arm Dumbbell Bent-Over Scapula Row primarily targets the Traps, with Strength mechanics using Dumbbell. Understanding muscle activation patterns helps you focus on proper engagement and maximize training effectiveness.

Primary
Traps
Traps80%
Secondary
Shoulders
Shoulders10%
Abs
Abs10%
Equipment
Dumbbell
Dumbbell
Special Bench
Special Bench
Exercise Type
Strength
80%Traps10%Shoulders10%Abs

Why Level 2?

Easy

Isolating shoulder-blade motion without elbow bending takes practice, but hand and knee support simplify balance.

Technique
Stability
Strength
Mobility
Impact
Learning

Sets & Reps Guidance

Beginner3 x 12-15
Intermediate3 x 10-12
Advanced4 x 8-10

Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Single Arm Dumbbell Bent-Over Scapula Row work?
Single Arm Dumbbell Bent-Over Scapula Row primarily targets the Traps. Secondary muscles involved include Shoulders, Abs. It is classified as a Strength exercise performed with Dumbbell.
How many sets and reps should I do for Single Arm Dumbbell Bent-Over Scapula Row?
For beginners, start with 3 sets of 12-15. Intermediate lifters can do 3 sets of 10-12. Advanced athletes can push to 4 sets of 8-10. Adjust based on your goals and recovery capacity.
Is Single Arm Dumbbell Bent-Over Scapula Row suitable for beginners?
Yes, Single Arm Dumbbell Bent-Over Scapula Row is rated as a beginner-friendly exercise, making it an excellent starting point. Focus on mastering proper form before increasing intensity or load.
What are the most common mistakes when doing Single Arm Dumbbell Bent-Over Scapula Row?
Torso rotates upward: keep your chest facing the floor throughout the movement. Shoulder shrugs toward your ear: keep your neck long as the shoulder blade moves.