T-Bar Row vs Close Grip T-bar Row
Which one fits your Back workout plan?
Contents
Planfit users log T-Bar Row more often — 3,618 sessions vs 543. Compare Back form, muscles worked, and when to use each.
Compare the benefits of T-Bar Row and Close Grip T-bar Row and pick the one that fits your Back workout.
T-Bar Row vs Close Grip T-bar Row: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log T-Bar Row more often — 3,618 sessions compared to 543 for Close Grip T-bar Row.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. T-Bar Row and Close Grip 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 T-Bar Row and Close Grip T-bar Row Differ
| What differs | T-Bar Row | Close Grip T-bar Row |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | 4 of 5 | 5 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 3,618 sessions | 543 sessions |
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.
How to Do Close Grip T-bar Row
Close Grip T-bar Row Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. As you gather your shoulder blades, gently pull your arms.
- 2. Pull your elbows until they reach your sides.
- 3. While keeping your chest open, slowly extend your arms and return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- Please keep your chest up to avoid slouching your back.
For a full Close Grip T-bar Row guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Close Grip T-bar Row exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Back, T-Bar Row or Close Grip T-bar Row?
Planfit users log T-Bar Row more often — 3,618 sessions against 543 for Close Grip 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 T-Bar Row and Close Grip T-bar Row need?
T-Bar Row needs a machine, and Close Grip T-bar Row needs a machine.
Which is easier to start with?
T-Bar Row is the easier place to start. Move to Close Grip T-bar Row once your form holds up.
Stop Guessing Which One to Do
AI picks your workouts based on your goals, body type, and experience.
