Dumbbell Bent Over Row: Does your torso rise as you pull?
Pull the dumbbells while keeping your torso in its starting bent-over position. Do not raise your torso as you pull.
How to fix it
- While standing, bend at your hips to lean your torso forward.
- Pull the dumbbells without changing your starting bent-over torso position.
- Slowly lower the dumbbells back to the starting position without letting them drop.
The app sets the reps for your next set
(For exercises you added to your routine yourself) For example, if you are a beginner and completed all 3 sets of 10 reps with a 12kg dumbbell in each hand as planned in your last workout, the app keeps the weight the same and increases your reps to 11. When you log your sets, GYMKC reads your last set and recalculates the weight and reps for your next set.
Get GYMKC on the App StoreHow far should you pull the dumbbells?
Sources differ on the end point. Some suggest pulling until the dumbbells touch your abdomen. Others suggest raising them until your elbows are just below your shoulders and level with your spine. Still others suggest pulling toward your chest until your upper arms are parallel to the floor. Either way, keep your bent-over torso in its starting position as you pull.
See this exercise in detail

More on the same body part
Sources
- García-Jaén M et al., Journal of Physical Education and Sport (2021)
- NSCA, Basics of Strength and Conditioning
- ACSM, Position Stand · Progression Models in Resistance Training for Healthy Adults
- Androulakis Korakakis P et al., Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology (2023)
- ACE, 4 Upper-body Movements for Beginners
- Mayo Clinic, Bent-over row with dumbbell
- U.S. Army, ATP 7-22.02 Holistic Health and Fitness Drills and Exercises
- NCSF, Proper Lifting Technique
This article is based on our analysis of public content from evidence-based training experts in Korea and abroad. It is not a substitute for medical advice.



