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Barbell pendlay row

Pull the bar toward the lower chest without raising the torso, then return it to a dead stop on the floor. Start with a manageable effort and increase it only while the setup and movement remain controlled.

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At a glance

EquipmentBarbell
Experience levelIntermediate
Movement patternHorizontal pull
Primary muscleLats
Also worksBiceps, Lower Back, Rear Deltoids
Barbell pendlay row: Exercise illustration (start) Barbell pendlay row: Exercise illustration (peak)
Exercise data by RepDB (repdb.co).

The movement, step by step.

  1. Set the bar on the floor over the midfoot and hinge until the back is nearly horizontal; elevate the bar if needed to keep a controlled spine.
  2. Pull the bar toward the lower chest without raising the torso, then return it to a dead stop on the floor.
  3. Return slowly to the starting position and reset before the next repetition.

Technique cues

  • Keep the torso steady as the elbows travel behind you.
  • Let the shoulder blades move without rounding the lower back.

Common mistakes

  • Jerking the weight with the hips instead of rowing.
  • Pulling beyond the range the shoulders can control.

Watch & learn

Professional demonstrations, opened on YouTube.

Alternatives

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Educational guidance, not an individual training prescription. Start with a manageable load, work within a comfortable range, and stop if a movement causes pain. Ask a qualified coach for help with an unfamiliar setup. Practice the technique before increasing load. Repetitions and working weight depend on your goals, experience, and individual needs.

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