The one arm machine row is a powerful exercise that targets key muscles in your back, including the latissimus dorsi, rhomboids, and trapezius. By performing this movement unilaterally, you focus on strengthening one side of the body at a time, which is essential for promoting balanced muscle development. This exercise reduces the involvement of other muscle groups, enabling precise muscle isolation. It’s particularly effective for correcting strength imbalances, improving posture, and enhancing overall back strength. Understanding your body’s mechanics during the one arm machine row is crucial for maximizing its benefits. Proper form ensures that you engage the right muscles while minimizing the risk of injury, making this movement a cornerstone for a well-rounded workout routine.

What Muscles Does the One Arm Machine Row Work?

The one arm machine row is a dynamic exercise that targets several key muscles in the upper body, making it an essential movement for strengthening the back and arms. By focusing on one side of the body at a time, it helps correct muscular imbalances and promotes unilateral strength development. Here is a breakdown of the primary muscles engaged during this exercise:

Primary Muscles Targeted

  • Latissimus Dorsi: The latissimus dorsi, often referred to as the lats, are the largest muscles of the back. When performing the one arm machine row, these muscles are heavily engaged as they pull the upper arm toward the body. The movement mimics the motion of a pulling exercise, making the lats the primary muscle worked in this row variation.
  • Rhomboids: Located between the shoulder blades, the rhomboids play a crucial role in stabilizing the shoulder girdle. During the one arm machine row, these muscles are activated as you squeeze your shoulder blades together at the peak of the row. This engagement helps improve posture and enhances overall back strength.
  • Trapezius: The trapezius muscle, which spans the upper back and neck, is essential for shoulder and neck stability. In the one arm machine row, the upper and middle parts of the trapezius are activated when you pull the handle toward your torso. The contraction of the traps is critical for completing the row effectively, ensuring that the shoulders remain stable throughout the movement.
  • Rear Deltoids: The rear deltoids, located at the back of the shoulders, are another primary muscle engaged in the one arm machine row. These muscles assist in the pulling motion and help stabilize the shoulder joint. Strengthening the rear delts through this exercise can improve shoulder health and functionality, as well as enhance the overall appearance of the upper body.
  • Biceps: Although the back muscles are the primary target, the biceps also play a significant role in the one arm machine row. As the arm pulls the handle, the biceps contract to assist with the movement, particularly during the initial phase of the row. This secondary engagement helps build arm strength and contributes to a more balanced workout.

Core Engagement

While the primary focus of the one arm machine row is on the upper body, the core muscles are also engaged during the exercise. As you stabilize your body and maintain a neutral spine, the abdominals and obliques work to support the torso. This core engagement is essential for controlling the movement and preventing excessive strain on the lower back. It also promotes better posture and alignment, ensuring that the pulling motion is executed with precision.

Benefits of the One Arm Machine Row

The one arm machine row provides several benefits that make it an effective addition to any commercial gym workout routine. One of the main advantages is the muscle isolation it offers. Unlike bilateral row exercises, which require both arms to work simultaneously, this single arm machine row row variation allows you to focus on one side of the body at a time. This leads to more targeted muscle activation and ensures that each side of the back and arms receives equal attention, reducing the risk of strength imbalances.

Additionally, the one arm machine row promotes balanced strength development. By working each side individually, you can address any muscle imbalances and build more even strength across the back and arms. This is particularly beneficial for athletes or individuals recovering from injury, as it helps correct weaknesses on one side of the body without overloading the other.

Another advantage of the one arm machine row is the reduced strain on the shoulders compared to other row variations. The 1 arm machine row provides a stable and controlled environment for the exercise, ensuring that the shoulder joint remains in a safe position throughout the movement. This makes it a great option for those who may have shoulder discomfort or are concerned about injury while performing traditional rows with free weights.

The one arm machine row is an excellent exercise for targeting the upper back, shoulders, and arms. It provides comprehensive muscle engagement, promotes balanced strength development, and offers a controlled and stable environment for safe and effective training. Whether you’re looking to improve posture, build back strength, or address muscular imbalances, this exercise is an essential part of any back workout routine.

How to Perform the One Arm Machine Row

The one arm machine row is an excellent exercise for targeting the back, shoulders, and arms. It offers the advantage of unilateral training, allowing you to focus on one side of the body at a time, which is particularly beneficial for addressing strength imbalances. Proper execution of the one arm machine row ensures maximum muscle engagement and minimizes the risk of injury. Below is a detailed breakdown of how to perform the one arm machine row correctly, with a focus on setup, execution, and form tips.

Setup

  1. Positioning: Start by sitting on the row machine with your feet flat on the floor and your knees slightly bent. Make sure your back is straight and that you are sitting tall. It’s crucial to maintain proper posture from the very beginning to avoid straining your lower back during the movement.
  2. Adjust the Seat: If the machine has an adjustable seat, set it to a height that allows you to reach the handle comfortably with your arm fully extended. Your arm should be in a neutral position, not overextended or too close to your body. Ensure that your torso is in a stable position and that you can pull the handle without any discomfort in your back or shoulders.
  3. Grip: With one hand, grip the handle firmly, ensuring your palm faces towards the machine (this is the standard grip). Keep your wrist straight to prevent unnecessary strain. Your other arm should rest comfortably on your knee or thigh for additional support. Engage your core and maintain a neutral spine to prepare for the movement.

Execution

  1. Initiate the Row: Begin the movement by exhaling and pulling the handle towards your waist. Focus on bringing your elbow straight back, rather than pulling with your hand. Your elbow should travel along your torso line, keeping the motion controlled and deliberate.
  2. Squeeze the Shoulder Blades: As you pull the handle closer to your body, squeeze your shoulder blades together at the top of the movement. This contraction is crucial for engaging the rhomboids and trapezius muscles. You should feel a slight pinch between your shoulder blades, indicating proper muscle activation.
  3. Slowly Return: Once you’ve pulled the handle as far back as possible, slowly reverse the motion by extending your arm back to the starting position. Keep the movement slow and controlled, ensuring you do not jerk or allow the weight to drop too quickly. The slow return helps maintain tension on the muscles and enhances the effectiveness of the exercise.
  4. Repetition: Complete the prescribed number of repetitions on one arm before switching to the other arm. Ensure that each repetition is performed with full control, focusing on the quality of each movement rather than rushing through the set.

Form Tips

  1. Neutral Spine: One of the most important aspects of the one arm machine row is maintaining a neutral spine throughout the entire movement. Avoid rounding or arching your back excessively. A neutral spine allows you to engage your core properly, protects your lower back, and ensures the muscles in your upper body do the majority of the work.
  2. Engage Your Core: Engage your core muscles during the entire movement to provide stability and support. The core acts as a stabilizer, helping you maintain balance while pulling the handle and preventing strain on your lower back. Focus on drawing your belly button towards your spine to ensure maximum core engagement.
  3. Shoulder Position: Keep your shoulders down and away from your ears throughout the exercise. Avoid shrugging your shoulders or using your traps excessively, as this can lead to improper muscle engagement and potential shoulder strain. Instead, focus on pulling the handle with your back muscles and keeping your shoulders stable.
  4. Controlled Motion: Whether you are pulling or returning the handle, always keep the motion slow and controlled. Jerky or fast movements can lead to poor form and increase the risk of injury. Focus on feeling the muscles work rather than completing the rep quickly. Controlling the weight during both the concentric (pulling) and eccentric (returning) phases maximizes muscle engagement.
  5. Breathing: Remember to exhale as you pull the handle towards your waist and inhale as you slowly return the weight. Proper breathing helps maintain rhythm, focus, and control during the movement. Avoid holding your breath, as this can increase tension in the body and reduce your performance.

The one arm machine row is an excellent addition to any commercial gym workout routine. When performed with proper technique, it provides great benefits for back and arm strength, posture, and overall muscle development. Whether you’re aiming to build size, correct muscle imbalances, or improve functional strength, this exercise is a must-try. By following the setup, execution, and form tips outlined here, you can ensure that your one arm machine row is performed safely and effectively.

One Arm Machine Row:Single Arm Seated Row Muscles Worked

The one arm machine row is an effective exercise that primarily targets the upper back, shoulders, and arms. When performed correctly, it helps to isolate these muscle groups and improve posture and overall strength. The single arm seated row is particularly beneficial because it allows for unilateral training, addressing any imbalances between the left and right sides of the body. In this section, we’ll break down the muscles worked by the one arm machine row and highlight the differences from other popular row variations.

Detailed Breakdown

The one arm machine row is an excellent way to target the upper back and core, making it a key movement in many commercial gym routines. This exercise isolates the muscles in the back while engaging the core for stability, helping to improve both strength and posture.

  • Latissimus Dorsi: The latissimus dorsi, or lats, are the primary muscles targeted during the one arm machine row. These muscles are responsible for pulling the arm toward the body, and they play a key role in developing a wide, strong back. The one arm machine row allows for a focused contraction of the lats, helping to build muscle size and strength.
  • Rhomboids: Located between the shoulder blades, the rhomboids are essential for scapular retraction. When you pull the handle toward your waist in the one arm machine row, the rhomboids are activated to squeeze the shoulder blades together. This motion improves posture and helps to develop the middle of the back, contributing to a balanced upper body.
  • Trapezius: The trapezius muscle spans across the upper back and neck. In the one arm machine row, the middle and lower portions of the traps are engaged as you pull the handle back. This helps stabilize the shoulders and contributes to overall back strength. Strong traps also support proper posture and shoulder alignment.
  • Rear Deltoids: The rear deltoids are engaged as the arm moves through the row, assisting in shoulder extension. These muscles help stabilize the shoulder joint, which is important for preventing injury during pressing or overhead movements. Strengthening the rear delts with the one arm machine row can improve shoulder health and enhance upper body aesthetics.
  • Biceps: Although the primary focus of the one arm machine row is on the back, the biceps also play a supporting role. The biceps help bend the elbow during the pulling phase, allowing for smooth and controlled movement. While not the primary muscle group, the biceps still get a solid workout, contributing to overall arm strength.
  • Core Muscles: The core plays a vital role in maintaining stability during the one arm machine row. As you pull the handle toward your torso, your core muscles—specifically the abdominals and obliques—work to stabilize the body and prevent unnecessary movement. Engaging the core not only helps with form but also reduces the risk of injury, especially in the lower back.

Differences from Other Row Variations

The one arm machine row differs from other row variations like the barbell row and dumbbell row in a few key ways. While all of these exercises target the back and arms, the machine row offers some distinct advantages.

  • One Arm vs. Two Arms: Unlike the barbell row and dumbbell row, which involve using both arms simultaneously, the one arm machine row isolates one side of the body at a time. This allows you to focus on each side individually, which is especially beneficial for correcting muscle imbalances. If one side of your back is weaker or less developed, the one arm machine row can help address that imbalance and promote more even strength across both sides of the body.
  • Stability and Support: One of the biggest advantages of the one arm machine row is the support it provides. The machine offers a fixed range of motion, which reduces the risk of poor form and injury. In contrast, exercises like the barbell row and dumbbell row require more stabilization from the core and back muscles, making them more challenging to perform correctly, especially for beginners. The machine row’s stable environment allows for more controlled, focused movements, which can lead to better muscle engagement and less strain on the body.
  • Targeting Specific Muscles: The one arm machine row allows you to focus more on specific muscles in the back. For example, you can adjust your hand position and angle of pull to target different parts of the back. While the barbell row and dumbbell row are more general compound movements that target the entire back, the one arm machine row allows for greater isolation of the lats, rhomboids, and traps, leading to more targeted muscle development.
  • Ease of Use: The one arm machine row is often considered easier to perform than the barbell or dumbbell row, especially for beginners. The machine provides clear instructions on posture and movement, helping users maintain proper form throughout the exercise. This makes it a great option for those who are new to rowing exercises or who are recovering from an injury.

The one arm machine row is an effective and versatile exercise for building back strength, improving posture, and addressing muscle imbalances. By isolating the back muscles and engaging the core, it helps to promote balanced strength and muscular development. Compared to other row variations like the barbell row and dumbbell row, the one arm machine row offers more stability and support, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced lifters. Whether you’re looking to improve your overall back strength or focus on specific muscle groups, the one arm machine row is a valuable addition to your workout routine.

Benefits of the Single Arm Row

The one arm machine row is a powerful exercise that offers numerous benefits for individuals looking to improve their back strength, posture, and overall muscular development. By focusing on one side at a time, this movement provides unique advantages compared to traditional row variations. Below, we’ll delve into the key benefits of the one arm machine row and how it can contribute to a more balanced and functional physique.

Unilateral Strength Development

One of the most significant benefits of the one arm machine row is its ability to promote unilateral strength development. When performing exercises that target both sides of the body simultaneously, it is common to have strength imbalances, where one side is stronger than the other. These imbalances can hinder overall performance and potentially lead to poor movement patterns or even injury.

The one arm machine row eliminates this issue by allowing you to train each side individually. By isolating one arm at a time, this exercise helps to correct muscular imbalances. It ensures that both sides of the body receive equal attention, which leads to more balanced strength development. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who have a dominant side or those recovering from an injury. Additionally, unilateral training enhances muscle coordination and stabilizer activation, which can translate to improved overall performance in other exercises or physical activities.

By incorporating the one arm machine row into your workout routine, you can work on developing both sides of your back equally. This results in more symmetrical strength and better functional movement, making it an essential exercise for balanced muscular development.

Improved Posture

The one arm machine row is an excellent exercise for improving posture. Good posture is essential for maintaining spinal health and overall well-being, but many individuals struggle with it due to weakness in the upper back muscles. The one arm machine row targets the latissimus dorsi, rhomboids, and trapezius—key muscles that play a significant role in maintaining proper posture.

When you perform the one arm machine row, the contraction of these muscles helps to pull the shoulder blades back and down, improving alignment of the spine. This action not only strengthens the upper back but also promotes better posture by counteracting the forward shoulder posture many people develop from sitting or poor alignment during daily activities.

Furthermore, strengthening these muscles improves the stability of the shoulder girdle, making everyday movements such as lifting, carrying, or reaching much easier and safer. As you continue to strengthen your back with the one arm machine row, you’ll notice improvements in your ability to maintain proper posture throughout the day, which can also reduce the risk of developing musculoskeletal issues in the future.

Versatility

Another significant advantage of the one arm machine row is its versatility. This exercise can be adapted to suit various fitness levels and goals, making it a valuable addition to any workout routine. Whether you are a beginner, an intermediate, or an advanced lifter, the one arm machine row can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

For beginners, the one arm machine row provides a stable and controlled environment that minimizes the risk of injury. The machine offers a fixed path of motion, allowing users to focus on proper technique without worrying about maintaining balance or stability. Beginners can start with lighter weights and gradually increase the load as they build strength and confidence in the movement.

For intermediate and advanced lifters, the one arm machine row can be performed with heavier weights to continue progressing and challenging the back muscles. You can also modify the exercise by adjusting the grip or hand positioning to target different areas of the back or shoulders. For example, using an overhand grip emphasizes the upper back, while an underhand grip places more focus on the biceps.

The versatility of the one arm machine row also extends to its ability to be combined with other exercises. It can be incorporated into back-focused workout routines, or it can be used as part of a full-body strength program. Additionally, because it isolates one side at a time, the exercise can be used to correct imbalances and build unilateral strength alongside bilateral exercises like the barbell row or deadlift.

Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation

In addition to its benefits for strength and posture, the one arm machine row is an excellent exercise for injury prevention and rehabilitation. By targeting the back muscles and improving stability, the exercise helps to strengthen areas that are often weak or underdeveloped, such as the lower traps and rhomboids. These muscles are critical for maintaining shoulder stability and preventing shoulder injuries.

For individuals recovering from shoulder injuries or other upper body issues, the one arm machine row offers a controlled, low-impact way to regain strength without placing undue stress on the joints. The fixed path of motion provided by the machine ensures that the movement is safe and doesn’t exacerbate existing injuries, making it a useful rehabilitation tool.

The one arm machine row is a highly effective and versatile exercise that offers a range of benefits, from unilateral strength development and improved posture to injury prevention and rehabilitation. Its ability to target the back muscles in isolation makes it an essential exercise for building balanced strength and muscle symmetry. Whether you are a beginner looking to develop proper form or an advanced lifter aiming to target specific areas of the back, the one arm machine row can be adapted to fit your needs. By incorporating this exercise into your commercial gym routine, you’ll enjoy improved strength, better posture, and enhanced overall performance.

One Arm Machine Row:What Does the Single Arm Row Machine Work?

The single arm row machine is an excellent exercise for targeting multiple muscles in the upper body, particularly in the back, shoulders, and arms. This movement involves pulling a weight with one arm at a time, which allows for unilateral strength development, helping to correct any muscle imbalances between the left and right sides of the body. The primary muscles worked during the single arm row machine are the latissimus dorsi (lats), the large muscles of the back responsible for creating a V-shaped physique. In addition to the lats, the rhomboids and trapezius muscles are also engaged as they assist in stabilizing and retracting the shoulder blades. These muscles play a vital role in maintaining good posture and strength in the upper back.

Other muscles that benefit from the single arm row machine include the rear deltoids, which help with shoulder extension and stabilization, and the biceps, which contract to assist in the pulling motion. The forearms and grip muscles are also activated as they help hold onto the handle throughout the exercise. Furthermore, the core plays an important role by stabilizing the torso and preventing unnecessary movement. Overall, the single arm row machine provides a focused, controlled way to strengthen the upper body, improve posture, and enhance muscular symmetry.

Single Arm Machine Press: An Effective Compound Exercise

The single arm machine press is another valuable machine-based exercise that focuses on the shoulders, chest, and triceps. By performing the press one arm at a time, this movement allows you to target each side of the upper body individually. This unilateral approach helps address muscle imbalances, especially for individuals with one side that is stronger or more developed than the other. The exercise primarily engages the deltoids (shoulders) and triceps, with the chest muscles also being recruited as stabilizers.

Using a single arm for the press can also help improve stability, as the body must adjust to the movement of the arm while maintaining balance. The machine ensures that the movement is controlled and that the shoulder joint remains in a safe and stable position throughout the exercise. This makes the single arm machine press an excellent option for those looking to build strength and muscle mass in the upper body without overloading the shoulder joints. It is a great addition to any workout program aimed at improving pushing strength and developing the shoulders, chest, and triceps.

One Arm Preacher Curl Machine: Targeting the Biceps

The one arm preacher curl machine is a specialized piece of equipment designed for isolating and targeting the biceps. This machine allows you to perform bicep curls while seated, with your upper arms supported on a pad that prevents any swinging or cheating during the movement. The one arm preacher curl machine is particularly effective at isolating the biceps because it minimizes the involvement of other muscle groups, ensuring that the biceps do all the work during each curl.

By using the machine, you can control the range of motion and avoid common mistakes such as using momentum or other muscles to assist with the curl. The fixed position of the arms ensures that the biceps are fully engaged from start to finish, making the exercise incredibly efficient for building arm strength and size. This machine is also beneficial for individuals who want to correct strength imbalances between the left and right arms, as it allows for independent arm training. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced lifter, the one arm preacher curl machine is an excellent tool for developing defined, strong biceps.

FAQs about One Arm Machine Row

What Muscles Do the Single Arm Band Row Work?

The single arm band row is a versatile exercise that targets multiple muscles in the upper body, particularly the back, shoulders, and arms. It’s typically performed using a resistance band anchored to a stationary object at torso height, and it allows for unilateral training by working one arm at a time. The primary muscle worked during the single arm band row is the latissimus dorsi, or lats, which are responsible for pulling the arm down and towards the body. This helps in developing a wider and more defined back.
In addition to the lats, the rhomboids, located between the shoulder blades, are engaged as you retract the shoulder blade during the pulling motion. The trapezius, especially the middle and lower portions, also play a key role in stabilizing the upper back and supporting the movement of the shoulder blades. The rear deltoids (back of the shoulder) assist in the rowing motion, and the biceps contract to bend the elbow as the resistance band is pulled. The core muscles, including the abdominals and obliques, are activated to stabilize the torso and prevent rotation during the movement.
The single arm band row is an excellent exercise for developing back strength, improving posture, and addressing muscle imbalances between the left and right sides of the body. Using a resistance band adds an element of versatility and portability, allowing you to perform this exercise in various settings, from commercial gyms to workout spaces. The continuous tension provided by the band also ensures that the muscles are engaged throughout the entire range of motion, helping to maximize muscle activation.

Can You Use a Rowing Machine with One Arm?

Yes, it is possible to use a rowing machine with one arm, and it can be a great variation for targeting specific muscles and improving unilateral strength. While traditional rowing on the machine involves using both arms in a synchronized motion, rowing with one arm allows you to isolate each side of the body and focus on strengthening one arm at a time. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with muscle imbalances or those recovering from an injury, as it helps in building strength and stability on both sides of the body.
When using a rowing machine with one arm, it’s important to maintain good form to prevent injury. Start by adjusting the resistance to a lighter setting to ensure you have proper control over the movement. As you row with one arm, focus on pulling with your back muscles, especially the latissimus dorsi, while engaging your core to keep your body stable. This exercise engages the same muscles as traditional rowing, including the lats, rhomboids, trapezius, biceps, and forearms, but with a more focused, unilateral approach.
Incorporating one-arm rows on a rowing machine into your routine can help correct imbalances between both sides of the body, build stronger arms and shoulders, and improve overall stability in the torso and back. It’s a great way to diversify your workout and target your upper body with controlled movements.

What Muscles Do the One Arm Seated Row Work?

The one arm seated row is an effective exercise that primarily works the muscles of the back, shoulders, and arms. It is performed using a cable machine where one arm pulls a handle toward the torso while seated, providing a controlled and stable environment for proper form. The main muscles activated during the one arm seated row include the latissimus dorsi (lats), which are responsible for pulling the arm downward and inward. The movement also engages the rhomboids, located between the shoulder blades, which help with retracting the scapula.
In addition to the lats and rhomboids, the one arm seated row works the trapezius muscles in the upper back, which are crucial for shoulder stability and supporting the movement of the arms. The rear deltoids, or the back part of the shoulder, are also targeted as they assist in pulling the arm backward. The biceps, which are the primary muscles of the upper arm, contribute to the flexion of the elbow during the rowing motion. Lastly, the forearms and grip muscles are activated as they help hold onto the handle throughout the exercise.
The one arm seated row is an excellent exercise for improving both back strength and muscle balance. By focusing on one arm at a time, it allows for correction of any strength imbalances between the left and right sides of the body, which is essential for developing symmetry and preventing injury.

What Does the Single Arm Row Machine Work?

The single arm row machine is a highly effective exercise that primarily targets the muscles in your back, shoulders, and arms. The movement involves pulling a weight with one arm at a time, which helps in building unilateral strength and addressing muscle imbalances. The key muscles worked during the single arm row machine include the latissimus dorsi (lats), which are the large muscles in your back that create a V-shaped appearance. It also activates the rhomboids, which are responsible for retracting the shoulder blades, and the trapezius, which stabilizes the upper back and neck.
In addition to the back muscles, the single arm row machine works the rear deltoids (shoulder muscles) and the biceps, as they assist in pulling the weight toward the body. The core muscles, including the abdominals and obliques, are also engaged as they help stabilize the torso and prevent excessive movement during the exercise. This makes the single arm row machine a great full-body movement, not just for improving back strength but also for enhancing overall posture, stability, and strength in the arms and shoulders.
By incorporating the single arm row machine into your workout routine, you can target both the large and small muscle groups in the upper body, which will help in improving your strength and muscle definition, making it an essential exercise for those aiming for a balanced physique.

Jessica Camp

I’m Jessica Camp, a passionate fitness enthusiast and the creative force behind Inpek Fitness’s content. With over a decade in the fitness industry, I combine my expertise in exercise science with a deep knowledge of commercial gym equipment. I’m dedicated to promoting health and wellness by sharing valuable tips, training techniques, and the latest trends in Pin Loaded Machines, Plate Loaded Machines, Multi Function Gym Machines, Gym Multi, and Free Weights. Whether you’re a gym owner or a fitness enthusiast, my articles are crafted to inspire and empower you to reach your fitness goals. When I’m not writing, I love working out and exploring innovative fitness solutions.




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