Back to Library

Exercise Guide

How to do cable upright row

Master the setup, range of motion, and tempo for safer, more effective reps.

The cable upright row is an effective exercise for targeting the lateral deltoids and upper trapezius muscles. Using a cable machine provides constant tension throughout the movement, which can be more joint-friendly than using a barbell. By pulling the handle toward the chin, you build shoulder width and upper back thickness, contributing to a more athletic and defined upper body appearance.

Stats

DIFFICULTY
Intermediate to Advanced
EQUIPMENT
Cable
TARGET MUSCLES
Traps, Front Shoulder, Lateral Shoulder

Instructions for Proper Form

Setup:

  1. Attachment: Attach a straight bar or EZ-bar to a low pulley cable machine.
  2. Grip: Stand facing the machine and grasp the bar with an overhand grip, hands closer than shoulder-width apart.
  3. Stance: Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart, arms extended downwards holding the bar.

The Movement:

  1. Pull: Exhale and pull the bar straight up towards your chin, leading with your elbows. Keep the bar close to your body.
  2. Peak: Continue pulling until the bar is near your chin and your elbows are higher than your wrists.
  3. Lower: Inhale and slowly lower the bar back to the starting position in a controlled manner.

Tips:

  • Avoid using momentum or swinging your body to lift the weight.
  • Focus on pulling with your shoulder and trapezius muscles.
  • If you feel any shoulder pain, try a wider grip or reduce the weight.

Common mistakes: Using too much weight leading to swinging, pulling the elbows too high above the shoulders, and rounding the upper back.

Alternatives

Cable

cable shrug

Traps
Barbell

barbell shrug

Traps
Barbell

barbell wide shrug

Traps
Barbell

barbell wide grip upright row

TrapsRear Shoulder+1
Trap Bar

trap bar shrug

Traps
Bench

chest supported dumbbell y-raises

TrapsRear Shoulder
Dumbbell

dumbbell shrug

Traps
Smith Machine

smit-machine shrug

Traps
Cable

cable upright row

TrapsFront Shoulder+1