What muscles does the Cable Twisting Standing High Row work?

This exercise primarily targets your back muscles and obliques, while also engaging the biceps, shoulders, and abdominal muscles as secondary movers. The twisting motion helps improve core stability and rotational strength.

What equipment do I need for the Cable Twisting Standing High Row, and are there any alternatives?

You’ll need a high cable machine with a single handle attachment to perform this movement correctly. If you don’t have access to a cable machine, you can try using resistance bands anchored above shoulder height to mimic the motion.

Is the Cable Twisting Standing High Row suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners can perform this exercise by using lighter weights and focusing on controlled movement to master proper form. Start slowly to build strength and coordination before increasing resistance.

What are common mistakes to avoid when doing a Cable Twisting Standing High Row?

Avoid pulling with just your arms engage your back and core throughout the movement. Keep your torso stable except for the intended twist, and don’t use momentum to yank the cable, as this reduces effectiveness and increases injury risk.

How many sets and reps should I do for the Cable Twisting Standing High Row?

For general strength and muscle tone, aim for 3 sets of 10–12 reps per side, using a weight that challenges you without compromising form. Adjust reps and load based on your fitness level and training goals.

What safety tips should I follow for the Cable Twisting Standing High Row?

Maintain a tight core and avoid excessive torso rotation to protect your lower back. Always use a controlled motion, and ensure the cable resistance matches your strength level to prevent strain or injury.

Are there variations of the Cable Twisting Standing High Row for different fitness levels?

Yes, you can perform a seated version to reduce lower body involvement, or slow down the movement to focus on muscle activation. Advanced users can increase resistance or add an isometric hold at the end range for extra core engagement.

Cable Twisting Standing High Row

Target Muscles

Primary:

Secondary:

Equipment Required

Strength Machine

Exercise Type

Weight & Reps

How To Do

Stand sideways to a high cable machine with feet shoulder-width apart, holding the handle in one hand and your core engaged. Pull the handle diagonally across your body while twisting your torso, bending your elbow and squeezing your back and obliques at the end of the movement. Return slowly to the starting position, keeping your movements controlled throughout.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Set up a cable machine with a handle attachment at a high position. Adjust the weight stack to your desired resistance level.
Stand sideways to the cable machine with your feet shoulder-width apart. Position your body so that the cable is on your side.
Grab the handle with one hand, keeping your arm extended and your torso slightly rotated towards the cable machine.
Step back with the leg opposite to the working arm to create a stable stance. Keep your knees slightly bent and your core engaged.
Begin the movement by pulling the handle diagonally across your body while twisting your torso. Your elbow should bend as you pull the handle towards your chest.
Squeeze your back and shoulder muscles at the end of the movement, ensuring a full contraction.
Slowly return to the starting position by extending your arm and rotating your torso back to the initial position.
Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, then switch sides to work the opposite arm and torso rotation.

Explore more back exercises or strength machine exercises in our exercise library.

Alternative Exercises

Cable Twisting Standing Row

Back

Obliques

Strength Machine

Cable Squat Row (with rope attachment)

Back

Glutes

Strength Machine

Dumbbell Palm Rotational Bent-Over Row

Back

Biceps

Dumbbell

Barbell One-Arm Bent-Over Row

Back

Barbell

Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does the Cable Twisting Standing High Row work?: This exercise primarily targets your back muscles and obliques, while also engaging the biceps, shoulders, and abdominal muscles as secondary movers. The twisting motion helps improve core stability and rotational strength.
What equipment do I need for the Cable Twisting Standing High Row, and are there any alternatives?: You’ll need a high cable machine with a single handle attachment to perform this movement correctly. If you don’t have access to a cable machine, you can try using resistance bands anchored above shoulder height to mimic the motion.
Is the Cable Twisting Standing High Row suitable for beginners?: Yes, beginners can perform this exercise by using lighter weights and focusing on controlled movement to master proper form. Start slowly to build strength and coordination before increasing resistance.
What are common mistakes to avoid when doing a Cable Twisting Standing High Row?: Avoid pulling with just your arms engage your back and core throughout the movement. Keep your torso stable except for the intended twist, and don’t use momentum to yank the cable, as this reduces effectiveness and increases injury risk.
How many sets and reps should I do for the Cable Twisting Standing High Row?: For general strength and muscle tone, aim for 3 sets of 10–12 reps per side, using a weight that challenges you without compromising form. Adjust reps and load based on your fitness level and training goals.
What safety tips should I follow for the Cable Twisting Standing High Row?: Maintain a tight core and avoid excessive torso rotation to protect your lower back. Always use a controlled motion, and ensure the cable resistance matches your strength level to prevent strain or injury.
Are there variations of the Cable Twisting Standing High Row for different fitness levels?: Yes, you can perform a seated version to reduce lower body involvement, or slow down the movement to focus on muscle activation. Advanced users can increase resistance or add an isometric hold at the end range for extra core engagement.