Back Extension vs Smith Machine Barbell Row

Maximizing Your Back Workout Plan

Feb 22, 2025

Contents

Can't decide between Back Extension and Smith Machine Barbell Row for your back workout? Trying to figure out which is better or when to do each for the best results?

Customize Your Back Workout: Explore the Benefits of Back Extension and Smith Machine Barbell Row for Better Comparison.

Planfit Users' Choice about Back Extension vs Smith Machine Barbell Row : Which is Better?

Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users seem to prefer Back Extension with a total of 6073 compared to 4483 for Smith Machine Barbell Row

However, this is just a matter of preference for the majority. If you are wondering which of the two exercises to do right away, please read the text below. Compare the pros and cons of each exercise and choose the one that suits you better to proceed with.

How to Back Extension

Back Extension gif

Back Extension muscles worked: Back

Form

  1. 1. Keeping your torso and legs stationary, slowly raise your upper body until it is in line with your lower body.
  2. 2. Hold for a moment at the top, then slowly lower your body back to the starting position.
  3. 3. Repeat for the desired number of reps.

Coach's Comment

  1. 1. Keep your back flat throughout the movement, and do not arch your back.
  2. 2. Do not swing your torso to complete the movement, use your back muscles instead.
  3. 3. If you experience any pain, stop the exercise and consult a doctor.

If you want to know a detailed guide to Back Extension, alternative exercises, and its benefits, check it out here. Check out the Back Extension Guide page of our blog!

Do you want to know more about Back Extension methods?

How to Smith Machine Barbell Row

Smith Machine Barbell Row gif

Smith Machine Barbell Row muscles worked: Back

Form

  1. 1. Begin by slowly lowering the barbell down to your midsection.
  2. 2. Keep your back flat and core engaged throughout the movement.
  3. 3. Drive your elbows back and squeeze your shoulder blades together as you pull the barbell up towards your chest.
  4. 4. Slowly lower the barbell back to the starting position.

Coach's Comment

  1. 1. Do not round your back while performing the exercise.
  2. 2. Do not jerk the barbell up quickly.
  3. 3. Make sure to keep your core engaged and your back flat throughout the entire exercise.

If you want to know a detailed guide to Smith Machine Barbell Row, alternative exercises, and its benefits, check it out here. Check out the Smith Machine Barbell Row Guide page of our blog!

Do you want to know more about Smith Machine Barbell Row methods?

Get free AI personalized workout plan

Choosing exercises that align with your goals and body type is as important as consistency in your workout regime. Its about smart training that targets your specific fitness aspirations.

To create a routine that incorporates the right exercises for you, explore our [workout generator] It’s a straightforward way to customize a workout plan to meet your unique needs and objectives, ensuring every effort contributes to your fitness journey.

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