Looking to get a ripped back but don’t know where to start? We’ve got you covered.
The back can be one of the most complicated parts of the body to work on. A lot of the muscles aren’t intuitive, meaning you don’t use them in everyday life that often, so it can be hard to figure out how to get it right. There’s a huge overlap between back and arms, so a lot of these you can expect to help out on arm day as well. Here’s five great exercises to get a totally ripped back.
1. Reverse Lat Pulldown
The reverse lat pulldown is one of the most challenging exercises you can do for your back, but definitely has a high impact and increases muscle gains. A reverse lat pulldown is a regular pulldown with your hands reversed, which increases the amount of work done by your back. It’s also a great workout for your arms because it’s essentially a modified pull-up. This is a great high impact workout that should definitely be included in any back workouts you have planned.
2. Bent-over Barbell Row
The bent-over barbell row is another great back workout. It’s essentially the same as a regular barbell deadlift except you’re bent over at a 90-degree angle. By keeping your back completely straight while you lift, you get a great back workout out of a workout that’s typically just for the arms. Again, another great workout that serves a dual purpose.
3. Rowing Machine
The rowing machine is definitely an underrated piece of equipment in the gym. It’s not a fan favorite, but it gets the job done well. Spending 20 or even 30 minutes on the rowing machine in the gym can really work our your arms and lower back. Just back sure to use proper posture, otherwise the workout will only be in your arms! You should be bending forward and pulling all the way back with a straight back each time.
4. Stiff Leg Barbell Deadlift
Just a modified barbell deadlift — the stiff leg barbell deadlift is a deadlift where you keep your legs completely straight. You bend over at the waist to lower the barbell and repeat. Make sure to keep your back completely straight — that’s the key to a lot of back workouts. Not only is it the only way to make sure your gains are actually in your back, but it’s important to prevent injuries like pulling a muscle.
5. Wide-Set Pull-up
Wide-set pull-ups are another great way to keep your back in shape. It’s essentially just a pull-up where your arms are really far apart. This increases the use of the muscles of your upper back and the area in between your neck and along your spine. It’s definitely an exhausting style of pull-up, but worth it for the killer workout you get through the upper back and arms. When you place your arms on the bar, keep them shoulder-length apart, and then add about four to six inches on either side of that.
