In
strength training
Strength training, also known as weight training or resistance training, is exercise designed to improve physical strength. It is often associated with the lifting of Weightlifting, weights. It can also incorporate techniques such as bodyweigh ...
, rowing (or a row, usually preceded by a qualifying adjective — for instance a ''cable seated row'', ''barbell upright row'', ''dumbbell bent-over row'', ''T-bar rows'', et cetera) is an exercise where the purpose is to strengthen the muscles that draw the rower's arms toward the body (
latissimus dorsi
The latissimus dorsi () is a large, flat muscle on the back that stretches to the sides, behind the arm, and is partly covered by the trapezius on the back near the midline.
The word latissimus dorsi (plural: ''latissimi dorsi'') comes from L ...
) as well as those that retract the scapulae (
trapezius and
rhomboids) and those that support the spine (
erector spinae). When done on a
rowing machine, rowing also exercises muscles that extend and support the legs (
quadriceps
The quadriceps femoris muscle (, also called the quadriceps extensor, quadriceps or quads) is a large muscle group that includes the four prevailing muscles on the front of the thigh. It is the sole extensor muscle of the knee, forming a large ...
and thigh muscles). In all cases, the
abdominal and lower back muscles
must be used in order to support the body and prevent back injury.
Many other weight-assisted gym exercises mimic the movement of rowing, such as the
deadlift
The deadlift is a strength training exercise in which a weight-loaded barbell is lifted off the ground to the level of the hips, with the torso perpendicular to the floor, before being placed back on the ground. It is one of the three powerlifting ...
, high pull and the bent-over row. An effective off-season training programme combines both erg pieces and weight-assisted movements similar to rowing, with an emphasis on improving endurance under high tension rather than maximum strength.
Gallery
Cable-seated-rows-1.png, Cable seated row (position 1, flexion)
Cable-seated-rows-2.png, Cable seated row (position 2, extension)
See also
*
Bent-over row
*
Upright row
*
Supine row
*
Indoor rower
References
Weight training
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