Seated Row Machine vs T-Bar Row
Which one fits your Back workout plan?
Contents
Planfit users log Seated Row Machine more often — 16,586 sessions vs 3,618. Compare Back form, muscles worked, and when to use each.
Compare the benefits of Seated Row Machine and T-Bar Row and pick the one that fits your Back workout.
Seated Row Machine vs T-Bar 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 3,618 for T-Bar Row.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Seated Row Machine and T-Bar 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 T-Bar Row Differ
| What differs | Seated Row Machine | T-Bar Row |
|---|---|---|
| Machine type | pin-loaded | plate-loaded |
| Difficulty | 1 of 5 | 4 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 16,586 sessions | 3,618 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 T-Bar Row
T-Bar Row Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. While gathering your shoulder blades, gently pull your arms.
- 2. Pull your elbows back until they reach behind your body.
- 3. Maintain an open chest position and slowly extend your arms to return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Open your chest and brace your abs to keep your torso stable, making sure your lower back does not round.
- 2. Using momentum can strain your lower back, so perform the movement slowly and in a controlled manner.
For a full T-Bar Row guide with alternatives and benefits, see the T-Bar Row exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Back, Seated Row Machine or T-Bar Row?
Planfit users log Seated Row Machine more often — 16,586 sessions against 3,618 for T-Bar 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 T-Bar Row need?
Seated Row Machine needs a machine, and T-Bar Row needs a machine.
Which is easier to start with?
Seated Row Machine is the easier place to start. Move to T-Bar Row once your form holds up.
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