Dumbbell Upright Row

The upright row with dumbbells, which lets the hands travel apart and spares the wrists.

Dumbbell Upright Row, illustrated

How to do it

Setup

Stand tall, bells at the thighs, palms toward the body.

Steps

  1. Pull the bells up along the body, elbows leading.
  2. Let the hands drift apart naturally as they rise.
  3. Stop at chest height; lower with control.

Common mistakes

Forcing the bells together: the free path is the point; let them travel apart. Pulling past comfort: chest height. Swinging with the hips: strict, quiet reps.

Breathing

Exhale on the pull, inhale lowering.