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Dumbbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench One Arm Row

A reverse, underhand grip on a one-arm incline row changes the angle the elbow travels compared to a standard row grip, generally bringing the lats and biceps in a bit more directly. The chest-supported incline bench takes the lower back out of the equation entirely, letting the back muscles do the pulling without worrying about spinal stability. Training one arm at a time also lets each side be pulled to full fatigue independently.

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Also known as: Db Reverse Grip Incline Bench One Arm Row, Dumbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench One Arm Row

Category

Back

Equipment

Dumbbell

Target

Upper Back

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Exercise reference published by PlanWorkouts; see our editorial standards.

How to Do the Dumbbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench One Arm Row

1. Set an incline bench to a 45-degree angle.
2. Place a dumbbell on the floor beside the bench.
3. Stand facing the bench with feet shoulder-width apart.
4. Bend at the waist and rest your left knee and left hand on the bench for support.
5. Pick up the dumbbell with your right hand using a reverse grip, palm facing down.
6. Keep your back straight and your core braced.
7. Pull the dumbbell up toward your chest, elbow staying close to your body.
8. Squeeze your back muscles at the top of the movement.
9. Lower the dumbbell back down under control to the start.
10. Continue for the target number of reps.
11. Complete your target reps on one side, maintaining smooth control, then switch sides and repeat.

Technique & Form Tips

Maintain a stable torso while bending elbows to draw upper arms back. Follow the demonstrated path for your chosen variant, whether seated or chest-supported, to focus movement on shoulder extension and scapular retraction as the load moves toward your torso.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using torso momentum: Avoid rocking your body to initiate the movement; use steady control to ensure the intended back muscles remain engaged.
• Cutting the movement short: Let the upper arms and shoulder blades move through the demonstrated, comfortable range without forcing a squeeze.
• Incorrect elbow path: Match the specific elbow trajectory shown in your variation rather than forcing a uniform width.

How to Breathe During This Exercise

Coordinate your exhale with the rowing action and inhale as you return to the starting position.

Comfort and Control

Choose a load and range you can control. Stop if the movement causes pain. If discomfort persists, stop and ask a qualified professional about an appropriate exercise and range.

General guidance: Mayo Clinic on weight-training technique. Follow the specific movement steps above for this variation.

Muscles Worked

The Dumbbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench One Arm Row mainly targets your Upper Back, with your Biceps helping support the movement, along with your Shoulders.

More Back Exercises

Alternate Lateral Pulldown Cable · Lats Archer Pull Up Body Weight · Lats Assisted Parallel Close Grip Pull-Up Leverage Machine · Lats Assisted Pull-Up Leverage Machine · Lats Assisted Standing Chin-Up Leverage Machine · Lats Assisted Standing Pull-Up Leverage Machine · Lats

More Upper Back Exercises

Back Lever Body Weight · Upper Back Band One Arm Standing Low Row Band · Upper Back Band One Arm Twisting Seated Row Band · Upper Back Barbell Bent Over Row Barbell · Upper Back Barbell Incline Row Barbell · Upper Back Barbell One Arm Bent Over Row Barbell · Upper Back

Equipment Alternatives

Don't have dumbbell? These target the same upper back with different equipment.

Bodyweight Squatting Row Body Weight · Upper Back Band One Arm Standing Low Row Band · Upper Back Barbell Bent Over Row Barbell · Upper Back Cable Decline Seated Wide-Grip Row Cable · Upper Back

FAQ

What muscles does the Dumbbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench One Arm Row work?

The Dumbbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench One Arm Row mainly works your upper back. It also helps strengthen your biceps and shoulders. Using good, smooth form makes sure you work the right muscles and avoid unnecessary strain on your joints.

What equipment do I need for the Dumbbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench One Arm Row?

You do the Dumbbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench One Arm Row with a dumbbell. Make sure your equipment is set up safely before starting. If you work out at home or have limited gear, check out our alternative exercises below.

What form mistake should I watch for on the Dumbbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench One Arm Row?

One mistake to watch for is using torso momentum: Avoid rocking your body to initiate the movement; use steady control to ensure the intended back muscles remain engaged.. Use a comfortable range and a controlled return; reduce the load if you cannot maintain the demonstrated setup.

How many sets and reps should I perform on the Dumbbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench One Arm Row?

To build muscle size, aim for 3 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 reps with 90 to 120 seconds of rest. To build pure strength, focus on 4 to 5 sets of 3 to 6 heavier reps with 2 to 3 minutes of rest.

What's a good alternative to the Dumbbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench One Arm Row?

The Bodyweight Squatting Row trains your upper back with body weight and a similar movement pattern. Review its form guide before substituting it, since setup and range of motion can differ.