T-Bar Row vs Rack Pull
Which one fits your Back workout plan?
Contents
Planfit users log T-Bar Row more often — 3,618 sessions vs 766. Compare Back form, muscles worked, and when to use each.
Compare the benefits of T-Bar Row and Rack Pull and pick the one that fits your Back workout.
T-Bar Row vs Rack Pull: 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 766 for Rack Pull.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. T-Bar Row and Rack Pull 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 Rack Pull Differ
| What differs | T-Bar Row | Rack Pull |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | a machine | a barbell |
| Difficulty | 4 of 5 | 5 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 3,618 sessions | 766 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 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Back, T-Bar Row or Rack Pull?
Planfit users log T-Bar Row more often — 3,618 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 T-Bar Row and Rack Pull need?
T-Bar Row needs a machine, and Rack Pull needs a barbell.
Which is easier to start with?
T-Bar Row is the easier place to start. Move to Rack Pull once your form holds up.
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