Exercise guide · intermediate
Cable Upright Row
Cable Upright Row uses cables in a vertical pull movement that primarily trains shoulders. Use it to build pulling strength through the back and arms.
- Equipment
- cables
- Typical range
- 8–20 reps
- Also works
- back, biceps
01 · Set up
Take the required grip for Cable Upright Row and secure your body against the pad or stable hanging position.
Start with long arms and shoulders controlled away from the ears.
02 · Perform
Drive the elbows down while bringing the chest toward the handle or bar.
Stop before the shoulders roll forward or the torso swings.
Return slowly to long arms while controlling the shoulder position.
Coaching tips
- Pull elbows down.
- Keep the chest tall.
- Reach long without shrugging.
Common mistakes
- Swinging to start the pull.
- Pulling behind the neck.
- Cutting the controlled return short.
What it should feel like
Expect controlled effort through the shoulders, not sharp or joint-focused pain.
Stop or modify when
Stop or shorten the range for sharp, sudden, worsening, or joint-focused pain; choose a reviewed alternative when needed.
Reviewed alternatives