Shoulders · Machine

Smith Machine One-Arm Upright Row

Fixed bar path, one hand, high pull.

Smith Machine One-Arm Upright Row exercise demonstration
ShouldersSecondary: Traps, BicepsMachine

How to do it

  1. Stand facing the Smith bar and grip the center with one hand, arm hanging straight.
  2. Drive your elbow up and out to the side, pulling the bar to chest height.
  3. Keep the bar close to your body the whole way up.
  4. Lower under control back to the start, then finish your reps and switch sides.

The one cue that matters

Lead with the elbow and stop at chest height so your shoulder doesn't impinge.

Muscles worked

The Smith Machine One-Arm Upright Row is a Shoulders-first movement, with Traps, Biceps working as the supporting cast. Track it consistently and you'll see exactly how it feeds your shoulders volume for the week.

FAQ

What muscles does the Smith Machine One-Arm Upright Row work?

The Smith Machine One-Arm Upright Row primarily works the Shoulders with Traps, Biceps assisting.

How heavy should I go?

Pick a weight where you finish each set with 1 to 2 clean reps left in the tank. Own the top of your rep range before adding weight.

One side at a time?

Yes, it's a unilateral movement. Start with your weaker side and match the reps with your stronger side so no side gets ahead.

Related exercises

All 127 shoulders exercises →
Track it in SUUPRLog sets, get smart progression hints, and train live with your crew.