High Row Machine vs Dumbbell Row
Which one fits your Back workout plan?
Contents
Dumbbell Row is the easier place to start — difficulty 2 of 5 vs 3. Compare Back form cues and when to progress.
Compare the benefits of High Row Machine and Dumbbell Row and pick the one that fits your Back workout.
High Row Machine vs Dumbbell Row: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Dumbbell Row more often — 8,288 sessions compared to 4,545 for High Row Machine.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. High Row Machine and Dumbbell Row differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How High Row Machine and Dumbbell Row Differ
| What differs | High Row Machine | Dumbbell Row |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | a machine | a dumbbell |
| Difficulty | 3 of 5 | 2 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 4,545 sessions | 8,288 sessions |
How to Do High Row Machine
High Row Machine Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. As you gather your shoulder blades, naturally pull your arms back.
- 2. Pull your elbows towards your sides.
- 3. While keeping your back straight, fully extend your elbows and return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Please be careful not to let your elbows flare out.
- 2. Please keep your chest open to avoid bending your waist.
For a full High Row Machine guide with alternatives and benefits, see the High Row Machine exercise guide.
How to Do Dumbbell Row
Dumbbell Row Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. Please pull the dumbbell sideways so that it can go up vertically.
- 2. While gathering your shoulder blades, naturally pull your elbows and hands.
- 3. Using the strength of your back, lower your hands down to below your knees.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Please be careful not to let your elbows flare out.
- 2. Please be careful not to arch your back too much or move it up and down.
- 3. Engage your core to prevent your back from rounding.
For a full Dumbbell Row guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Dumbbell Row exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Back, High Row Machine or Dumbbell Row?
Neither is clearly ahead — Planfit users log both at a similar rate. They both train Back, so the choice comes down to the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
What equipment do High Row Machine and Dumbbell Row need?
High Row Machine needs a machine, and Dumbbell Row needs a dumbbell.
Which is easier to start with?
Dumbbell Row is the easier place to start. Move to High Row Machine once your form holds up.
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