How to Do the TRX Row

The TRX row uses suspension straps so you lean back and pull your chest to your hands, working your back and arms with an adjustable angle. It is useful for beginners, home training and anyone wanting a shoulder-friendly rowing option.

Download on the App StoreLog every set of your TRX Row in Superlift

Muscles worked

Primary

  • Lats

Secondary

  • Biceps
  • Abs

How to do the TRX Row

  1. 1

    Adjust the straps to about mid-chest height and hold the handles with palms facing each other.

  2. 2

    Walk your feet forward and lean back with your arms straight.

  3. 3

    Straighten your body from head to heels and brace your core.

  4. 4

    Pull your chest toward your hands, driving your elbows back.

  5. 5

    Squeeze your shoulder blades together at the top.

  6. 6

    Lower yourself with control until your arms are straight.

  7. 7

    Keep your body rigid throughout.

Form cues to remember

  • Body stays in one line
  • Elbows drive back
  • Chest to your hands
  • Control the lowering

TRX Row video tutorial

How To Do TRX Rows · PureGym on YouTube

Common mistakes

Hips sagging

Squeeze your glutes and abs to keep your body straight.

Shrugging your shoulders

Pull your shoulders down before you row.

Letting your hands drift wide

Keep your elbows close to your ribs.

Jerking yourself up

Use a slower, smoother pull and step back if you cannot control it.

Sets and reps

Muscle growth3–4 sets of 8–15 reps, 60–90 seconds rest
Endurance2–3 sets of 15–20 reps at a steeper angle
StrengthMove your feet forward to lower your body angle and add difficulty

Make sure the anchor point is secure before leaning back. Use a more upright angle if you feel strain in your shoulders or elbows.

Superlift for iPhone

Track your TRX Row and watch it go up

Superlift shows what you lifted last time, times your rest, and charts your strength week by week, so you always know what to beat. Every exercise in this library is built in, with the same demos and tutorials.

Download on the App Store
Logging sets, reps and weight in SuperliftStrength progression chart in SuperliftExercise instructions and video tutorials in Superlift

TRX Row FAQ

How do I make TRX rows easier or harder?

Step your feet closer to the anchor to be more upright and easier, or walk them forward to lean back and make it harder. Elevating your feet adds difficulty.

TRX row vs inverted row?

Both are bodyweight rows. The TRX lets your hands rotate and is easier to adjust, while the barbell version has a fixed grip.

Can I do TRX rows at home?

Yes. You can anchor straps to a sturdy door, beam or pull-up bar that can hold your weight. Check the anchor before each use.

TRX Row alternatives

Browse all exercises →