Seated Row Machine vs Cable High Row
Which one fits your Back workout plan?
Contents
Planfit users log Seated Row Machine more often — 16,586 sessions vs 651. Compare Back form, muscles worked, and when to use each.
Compare the benefits of Seated Row Machine and Cable High Row and pick the one that fits your Back workout.
Seated Row Machine vs Cable High Row: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Seated Row Machine more often — 16,586 sessions compared to 651 for Cable High Row.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Seated Row Machine and Cable High Row differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Seated Row Machine and Cable High Row Differ
| What differs | Seated Row Machine | Cable High Row |
|---|---|---|
| Machine type | pin-loaded | cable-driven |
| Difficulty | 1 of 5 | 2 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 16,586 sessions | 651 sessions |
How to Do Seated Row Machine
Seated Row Machine Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. While gathering your shoulder blades, naturally pull your arms.
- 2. Pull until your elbows are vertical.
- 3. Return to the starting position by fully extending your elbows while keeping your back straight.
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 Seated Row Machine guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Seated Row Machine exercise guide.
How to Do Cable High Row
Cable High Row Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. Grab the handle from the high position of the cable machine.
- 2. Pull your arms back and stabilize your upper body.
- 3. Slowly return to the original position.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Please be careful not to strain your shoulders by fully extending your shoulders and arms.
- 2. Please be careful not to let your trapezius muscles rise along with it.
For a full Cable High Row guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Cable High Row exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Back, Seated Row Machine or Cable High Row?
Planfit users log Seated Row Machine more often — 16,586 sessions against 651 for Cable High Row. Both train Back, so pick the one that matches the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
What equipment do Seated Row Machine and Cable High Row need?
Seated Row Machine needs a machine, and Cable High Row needs a machine.
Which is easier to start with?
Seated Row Machine is the easier place to start. Move to Cable High Row once your form holds up.
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