I’ve been lifting for a few years, but I struggle to make progress on barbell rows. I’m not referring to Pendlay rows, but rather the variation where the torso remains fixed at around a 45-degree angle to the floor.
Do you have any cues or recommendations? I find it difficult to determine when to add weight. When I do increase the load, my torso tends to rise (e.g., closer to 60 degrees instead of staying at 45).
What do you think is a reasonable weight for someone who can bench 225×7 and squat 315×8?
I find it useful to not be too eager to increase the weight from workout to workout.
On some exercises (BB rows and lateral raises come to mind) I find weight progression to be less useful as a marker of progression, especially in the short term.
Rows are usually pretty easy to tell when you’re using too much weight because you start putting more body English into the movement.
Ive never felt heavy, low rep rows do anything for me. In know im looking at it as a powerlifter, but its an assistance lift. Most of the time i row after bench. 8-15 reps. Get a good squeeze and work some blood into your back. Dont worry about the weight on rows, worry about the bench or deadlift.
Personal preference I guess. Sometimes dudes love to use straps for back moves because they “take the arms out” or help “connect with the back” better. So maybe it’s worth a shot do try a few sets that way.
And if that sounds stupid, and straps seem like a hassle, don’t worry about it.
