Dumbbell Row | Form Check

The dumbbell row is a strength training staple — but are you sure you're even doing the exercise correctly?

For this basic gym necessity, you shouldn't settle for anything other than perfect form—especially because it's such a simple, essential movement when done properly. Let Men's Health fitness director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S. and associate fitness editor Brett Williams guide you through the exercise's subtleties, saving you from the bad habits that are keeping you from unlocking your fitness potential.

Before you grab a dumbbell and start pulling, take note that it's extremely important to pay attention to the subtleties of the stance here. You're not just bending over and cranking out reps—you want to make sure that you're using the right muscles in the first place.