The Ultimate Guide to Single Arm Seated Cable Row

MyFitnessCoach
March 4, 2025
When it comes to building a strong, muscular back, the single-arm seated cable row is one of the most effective exercises you can add to your workout routine. This exercise targets multiple muscles in your upper body, including your lats, rhomboids, traps, and biceps, while also improving your posture and core stability. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned gym-goer, mastering this exercise can take your fitness journey to the next level.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the single arm seated cable row, including its benefits, proper form, common mistakes, and how you can use the MyFitnessCoach app to track your progress and stay motivated.
How to Perform a Single-Arm Seated Cable Row with Proper Form
Performing the single arm seated cable row with proper form is crucial to avoid injury and maximize results. Follow these steps:
- Set Up the Machine: Attach a single-handle grip to the cable machine and adjust the weight according to your strength level. Sit on the bench with your feet firmly planted on the footrests.
- Position Yourself: Grab the handle with one hand and extend your arm fully. Keep your back straight, chest up, and shoulders relaxed. Your other hand can rest on your thigh or the bench for support.
- Engage Your Core: Tighten your core muscles to stabilize your body throughout the movement.
- Pull the Handle: Exhale as you pull the handle toward your torso, keeping your elbow close to your body. Focus on squeezing your shoulder blade as you pull.
- Pause and Return: Pause for a second when the handle is close to your body, then slowly return to the starting position while inhaling. Keep the movement controlled—don’t let the weight pull you forward.
- Repeat: Complete the desired number of reps on one side before switching to the other arm.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Too Much Weight: Lifting more weight than you can handle often leads to poor form and reduces the effectiveness of the exercise. Start light and focus on proper technique.
- Rounding Your Back: Keep your back straight throughout the movement. Rounding your back can strain your spine and increase the risk of injury.
- Pulling with Your Arm Only: The movement should be driven by your back muscles, not just your arm. Focus on squeezing your shoulder blade as you pull.
- Jerking or Swinging: Avoid using momentum to pull the weight. This takes the focus off your back muscles and reduces the exercise’s effectiveness.
- Not Fully Extending Your Arm: Make sure to fully extend your arm at the start of each rep to get the full range of motion.
Tips for Maximizing Results
- Warm Up Properly: Before you begin your workout, take at least 5 to 10 minutes to prepare your back and shoulders. You can do this by performing dynamic stretches or engaging in light cardio activities, such as arm circles, jumping jacks, or brisk walking. Warming up helps loosen your muscles, improves blood flow, and reduces the risk of injury.
- Focus on the Mind-Muscle Connection: Pay close attention to how your back muscles feel while performing the exercise. Try to actively engage and contract these muscles during each movement. This will help ensure that you are working the correct muscles rather than relying on other body parts to do the work.
- Control the Movement: Perform each repetition in a slow and controlled manner. Avoid using momentum or rushing through the exercise, as this can reduce its effectiveness and increase the risk of injury. Focus on maintaining proper form and feeling the tension in your back muscles throughout the movement.
- Progress Gradually: As you build strength over time, challenge yourself by either increasing the amount of weight you lift or adding more repetitions to your sets. However, it is important to progress gradually to avoid straining your muscles or causing injury.
- Incorporate Variety: To ensure a balanced and effective workout, include other back exercises alongside the single-arm seated cable row. Some great exercises to add to your routine are pull-ups, lat pulldowns, and bent-over rows. By mixing different exercises, you can work your back muscles in various ways and achieve better overall strength and development.
How MyFitnessCoach Can Help You Master the Single-Arm Seated Cable Row
Staying consistent and tracking your progress is key to achieving your fitness goals. That’s where MyFitnessCoach comes in. This innovative fitness app is designed to help you stay on track with your workouts, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced lifter.
With MyFitnessCoach, you can:
- Access step-by-step video tutorials for exercises like the single-arm seated cable row.
- Track your sets, reps, and weights to monitor your progress over time.
- Get personalized workout plans tailored to your fitness level and goals.
- Stay motivated with reminders, challenges, and progress reports.
The app also offers tips on proper form and technique, ensuring you perform each exercise safely and effectively. Whether you’re working out at the gym or at home, MyFitnessCoach is your ultimate fitness companion.
Ready to Transform Your Back Workout?
The single arm seated cable row is a powerful exercise that can help you build a stronger, more defined back while improving your posture and core stability. By incorporating this move into your routine and using the MyFitnessCoach app, you can take your fitness journey to the next level.

Download MyFitnessCoach today and get access to personalized workout plans, expert guidance, and progress tracking tools. Whether you’re aiming to build muscle, improve your posture, or simply stay active, MyFitnessCoach is here to support you every step of the way. Start your free trial now and see the difference for yourself!
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