IFPA Trainer Practice Exam

Which muscle is primarily worked during the seated-row?

1. Rhomboid

2. Latissimus dorsi

3. Triceps brachii

4. Deltoid

The correct answer is: Latissimus dorsi

The seated-row exercise primarily targets the latissimus dorsi, which is a large muscle in the back responsible for a variety of movements, including shoulder extension, adduction, and internal rotation. During the seated-row, the motion of pulling the handle towards the torso incorporates a significant contraction of the latissimus dorsi as it works to bring the arms back in line with the body. While the rhomboids are also engaged during this movement by helping to retract the scapula and stabilize the shoulder blades, the latissimus dorsi plays a more dominant role in the pulling action. The triceps brachii, primarily responsible for extending the elbow, are not the main focus during the seated-row, and while they may assist slightly, they do not engage significantly in the primary movement pattern. Similarly, the deltoid, which is primarily responsible for shoulder abduction, flexion, and extension, is not the primary muscle worked in this exercise. Therefore, the latissimus dorsi's involvement in the pulling motion of the seated-row makes it the primary muscle worked during this exercise.