Dumbbell-Only Back Sculpting Workout
Gym | Single Workout | Beginner: 4 exercises
This dumbbell-only back workout is designed to strengthen and sculpt your upper body, focusing on the muscles of the back. This routine is suitable for individuals at all fitness levels who are looking to improve their muscular endurance and strength using just a set of dumbbells. Each exercise targets different areas of the back, making it a comprehensive back workout.
The first exercise, the Dumbbell Incline Row, is performed for 4 sets of 15, 12, 10, and 10 reps. Set an incline bench to about a 45-degree angle and lie chest-down with a dumbbell in each hand. Row the dumbbells towards your chest, keeping your elbows close to your body and squeezing your shoulder blades together at the top of the movement. This exercise targets the middle and upper back muscles.
Next, move on to Dumbbell Incline Shrugs for 4 sets of 15, 12, 10, and 10 reps. Using the same incline bench position as the previous exercise, hold the dumbbells at your sides and simply shrug your shoulders towards your ears, focusing on contracting your upper traps. Carefully lower them back down after a slight pause at the top of the movement.
The third exercise in this sequence is the Dumbbell One Arm Row with rack support. Perform this for 4 sets of 15, 12, 10, and 10 reps on each arm. Place one hand and the same knee on a bench, keeping the other foot on the floor, and a dumbbell in the free hand. Row the dumbbell to your side, minimizing torso rotation. This movement emphasizes the lats and lower traps.
Conclude the workout with the Dumbbell Pullover for 4 sets of 15, 12, 10, and 10 reps. Lie on a flat bench with a dumbbell held in both hands above your chest. Slowly lower the dumbbell back and over your head, keeping a slight bend in the elbows, then bring the dumbbell back over your chest. This exercise is excellent for expanding the rib cage and stretching the lats.