Low Row Machine vs Kettlebell Row
Which one fits your Back workout plan?
Contents
Planfit users log Low Row Machine more often — 3,102 sessions vs 127. Compare Back form, muscles worked, and when to use each.
Compare the benefits of Low Row Machine and Kettlebell Row and pick the one that fits your Back workout.
Low Row Machine vs Kettlebell Row: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Low Row Machine more often — 3,102 sessions compared to 127 for Kettlebell Row.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Low Row Machine and Kettlebell Row differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Low Row Machine and Kettlebell Row Differ
| What differs | Low Row Machine | Kettlebell Row |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | a machine | a kettlebell |
| Difficulty | 3 of 5 | 2 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 3,102 sessions | 127 sessions |
How to Do Low Row Machine
Low Row Machine Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. As you gather your shoulder blades, naturally pull your arms.
- 2. Pull your elbows back until they reach behind your body.
- 3. While maintaining an open chest, slowly extend your arms and return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- Please keep your chest out to avoid slouching your back.
For a full Low Row Machine guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Low Row Machine exercise guide.
How to Do Kettlebell Row
Kettlebell Row Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. Please hold the kettlebell with both hands while leaning your upper body forward.
- 2. Squeeze your shoulder blades together and pull your elbows back to lift the kettlebell.
- 3. Raise it until your elbows are vertical, then slowly return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Please keep your chest open so that your shoulders do not hunch forward.
- 2. Engage your core to prevent your back from rounding.
For a full Kettlebell Row guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Kettlebell Row exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Back, Low Row Machine or Kettlebell Row?
Planfit users log Low Row Machine more often — 3,102 sessions against 127 for Kettlebell Row. Both train Back, so pick the one that matches the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
What equipment do Low Row Machine and Kettlebell Row need?
Low Row Machine needs a machine, and Kettlebell Row needs a kettlebell.
Which is easier to start with?
Kettlebell Row is the easier place to start. Move to Low Row Machine once your form holds up.
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