Low Row Machine vs Standing Cable Row
Which one fits your Back workout plan?
Contents
Planfit users log Low Row Machine more often — 3,102 sessions vs 657. Compare Back form, muscles worked, and when to use each.
Compare the benefits of Low Row Machine and Standing Cable Row and pick the one that fits your Back workout.
Low Row Machine vs Standing Cable 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 657 for Standing Cable Row.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Low Row Machine and Standing Cable 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 Standing Cable Row Differ
| What differs | Low Row Machine | Standing Cable Row |
|---|---|---|
| Machine type | plate-loaded | cable-driven |
| Difficulty | 3 of 5 | 2 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 3,102 sessions | 657 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 Standing Cable Row
Standing Cable Row Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. As you gather your shoulder blades, naturally pull your arms back.
- 2. Pull until the grip touches your abdomen.
- 3. Return to the starting position by straightening your back and fully extending your elbows.
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.
- 3. Please stabilize your waist so it doesn't move back and forth.
For a full Standing Cable Row guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Standing Cable Row exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Back, Low Row Machine or Standing Cable Row?
Planfit users log Low Row Machine more often — 3,102 sessions against 657 for Standing Cable 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 Standing Cable Row need?
Low Row Machine needs a machine, and Standing Cable Row needs a machine.
Which is easier to start with?
Standing Cable Row is the easier place to start. Move to Low Row Machine once your form holds up.
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