Rack Pull vs High Row Machine
Which one fits your Back workout plan?
Contents
Planfit users log High Row Machine more often — 4,545 sessions vs 766. Compare Back form, muscles worked, and when to use each.
Compare the benefits of Rack Pull and High Row Machine and pick the one that fits your Back workout.
Rack Pull vs High Row Machine: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log High Row Machine more often — 4,545 sessions compared to 766 for Rack Pull.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Rack Pull and High Row Machine differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Rack Pull and High Row Machine Differ
| What differs | Rack Pull | High Row Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | a barbell | a machine |
| Difficulty | 5 of 5 | 3 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 766 sessions | 4,545 sessions |
How to Do Rack Pull
Rack Pull Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. Please pull the barbell towards your belly button so that it can go up vertically.
- 2. While gathering your shoulder blades, naturally pull your elbows and hands.
- 3. While supporting the weight with your back strength, slowly lower the barbell onto the rack.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Please be careful not to let your elbows flare out.
- 2. Please be careful not to overly straighten your back or move it up and down.
- 3. Engage your core to prevent your back from rounding.
For a full Rack Pull guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Rack Pull exercise guide.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Back, Rack Pull or High Row Machine?
Planfit users log High Row Machine more often — 4,545 sessions against 766 for Rack Pull. Both train Back, so pick the one that matches the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
What equipment do Rack Pull and High Row Machine need?
Rack Pull needs a barbell, and High Row Machine needs a machine.
Which is easier to start with?
High Row Machine is the easier place to start. Move to Rack Pull once your form holds up.
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