Smart Workout Diary

Cable Upright Row Supine

The supine cable upright row is performed lying on your back while pulling a low cable attachment upward toward the chin. It primarily trains the deltoids and upper trapezius, with the supine position helping limit body swing. It can support shoulder and upper-back strength when performed with controlled range of motion and a comfortable grip width.

Demonstration

Instructions

  1. Set up the cable: Attach a straight bar or short cable handle to a low pulley and select a light, controllable load.
  2. Lie supine facing the pulley: Position yourself on the floor with your head nearer the pulley, knees bent and feet planted. Reach back to take an overhand grip slightly narrower than shoulder width.
  3. Create a stable start: Keep your head, upper back, and hips supported on the floor. Begin with the arms extended toward the pulley and keep the cable under light tension.
  4. Pull upward: Exhale and draw the handle toward the lower face or chin, leading with the elbows. Let the elbows travel out and upward, but stop at a height that feels comfortable for your shoulders.
  5. Control the return: Inhale as you slowly extend the arms back toward the pulley without letting the weight stack slam down.
  6. Repeat with control: Keep the torso still throughout. Reduce the load or range of motion if you feel shoulder pinching or pain.
Muscle Group
Delts
Other Muscle Groups
Traps
Type
Strength
Mechanics
Compound
Equipment
Machine Strength
Difficulty
Intermediate

Technique tips

  1. Use a modest load: The supine setup reduces momentum, so a lighter load is usually enough to keep the pull smooth.
  2. Choose shoulder-friendly range: Do not force the elbows high; stop before the movement causes pinching or discomfort.
  3. Keep the wrists neutral: Avoid sharply bending the wrists as the handle approaches the chin.
  4. Move slowly: Avoid jerking the handle upward or relaxing suddenly on the return.