Primary
Back
Secondary
Biceps, Core
Equipment
Dumbbell
Difficulty
Beginner
Type
Pull
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Single-arm dumbbell rows isolate each side of your back independently, exposing and correcting imbalances. One hand and knee support you on a bench while the other arm rows. This is the most popular unilateral back exercise for good reason—it works.
When to use it
Use for unilateral development.
Who it's for
All fitness levels looking to build strength and muscle definition.
Keep your back flat and do not rotate your torso during the row. Pull the dumbbell to your hip pocket, not your chest. Drive your elbow straight back, not out to the side.
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Place one knee and hand on bench.
Hold dumbbell in other hand.
Keep back flat for optimal results.
Row dumbbell to your hip.
Squeeze lat at top for optimal results.
Lower with control for optimal results.
Classic dumbbell row.
Keep back flat for optimal results.
Row to hip, not chest.
Don't rotate torso for optimal results.
Use single-arm rows when you notice one side is stronger than the other or when you want focused unilateral work. They fit well after bilateral rowing as accessory work. The bench support also gives your lower back a break.
Rotating torso which reduces targeted muscle activation.
On pulling movements like the Single-Arm Dumbbell Row, this mistake typically means your arms are doing work that should come from your Latissimus dorsi. Initiate every rep by engaging your Latissimus dorsi first, then let your arms follow.
Rounding back which increases risk of spinal injury.
A compromised back position during the Single-Arm Dumbbell Row puts your spine under unnecessary shear force. Brace your core and maintain a neutral spine throughout the movement.
Using momentum instead of controlled muscle contraction.
Bouncing or using momentum during the Single-Arm Dumbbell Row takes work away from your Latissimus dorsi and puts your connective tissue at risk. Control the weight through the full range — if you can't, lower the load.
All fitness levels looking to build strength and muscle definition.
Lower reps with heavier weight builds raw strength. Your muscles and nervous system adapt to handle more load over time. This range is best for strength-focused goals.
This rep range keeps your muscles under tension long enough to trigger growth. Most people see the best muscle-building results in this zone. It balances strength and muscle size.
Higher reps with lighter weight builds muscular endurance and improves conditioning. This range is good for joint health and building work capacity.
General guideline: 3 sets of 10-12 reps per side. Rest 60s.
MySetPlan places Single-Arm Dumbbell Row inside a complete workout — with the right sets, reps, rest periods, and a progression you can follow week to week.
Sample workout
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Single-Arm Dumbbell Row
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Single-Arm Dumbbell Row
The Single-Arm Dumbbell Row primarily targets the Latissimus dorsi, making it an effective exercise for back development. Secondary muscles worked during the Single-Arm Dumbbell Row include Biceps, Rhomboids, providing additional training stimulus. Stabilizer muscles engaged include Core.
Yes, the Single-Arm Dumbbell Row is an excellent choice for beginners due to its straightforward movement pattern and lower technical demands. All fitness levels looking to build strength and muscle definition. Start with lighter weights to master proper form before progressing.
For the Single-Arm Dumbbell Row, the recommended approach depends on your goals. 3 sets of 10-12 reps per side. Rest 60s. For strength, use 6-8 reps per side. For muscle growth, perform 10-12 reps per side. For endurance, complete 12-15 reps per side.
Yes, the Single-Arm Dumbbell Row can be done at home with a dumbbell. It requires minimal space and is a great option for home workouts targeting back.
Good alternatives to the Single-Arm Dumbbell Row include: Dumbbell Row, Seated Cable Row. These exercises target similar muscle groups as the Single-Arm Dumbbell Row and can be used as substitutes based on your equipment availability, gym setup, or training preferences.