FastFit BETA
IntermediateStrength
Drag to rotate 360°
Speed for this exercise

Kettlebell Gorilla Row

Try it now
3sets
8-10reps /side
90srest
~7.4kcal/min

How to do it

Muscles worked

Feel it right

Where you should feel it, the one cue to remember, and quick fixes when you feel it somewhere else.

You should feel it inUpper back

Middle back between the shoulder blades and the lats; the arms only hold on.

Key cue (the coach says it during the set)“Chest up, drive the elbows back, squeeze the shoulder blades.”

Tempo · Pull 1 s · squeeze 1 · lower 2 s

Choosing the load: Pick a weight you finish with 1–2 good reps left. 4+ left = too light; form breaks = too heavy.

Feel it somewhere else? Fix it like this

  • Feel it in Front of armsCurling the weight. Loosen the grip, use the hands like hooks, and drive the elbows back.
  • Feel it in Lower backBack rounding or jerking. Keep a flat back, brace, reduce the weight — or use a chest-supported row.
  • Feel it in Neck / upper trapsShrugging the weight up. Pull toward the hips (not the shoulders) and keep the neck long.
  • Barely felt itToo light or too fast. Lower for 3 seconds, pause 1 second at the stretch, and pick a load that leaves only 1–2 reps in the tank.
  • Joint painSharp or joint pain is a stop sign: end this set, lower the weight, shorten the range — if it repeats, switch to an easier variation.

During a workout we ask after the first set where you felt it and give the fix right away — and remember it for next time.

Tips

  • Alternate sides every rep and keep your torso steady.
  • Hinge at the hips with a flat back — never round your spine.
  • Sit your hips back and keep your knees bent to protect your lower back.
  • Pressing the grounded kettlebell down helps lock your torso in place.
  • Grip the handle firmly and keep your wrist straight.

Common mistakes

  • Rotating the torso to heave the kettlebell up.
  • Rounding the back in the bottom position.

Breathing

Exhale as you row, inhale as you lower the kettlebell.

Equipment needed

Recommended by goal

Build muscle3–4 sets × 8–12 reps · rest 60–90 s
Strength4–5 sets × 4–6 reps · rest 2–3 min
Endurance2–3 sets × 15–20 reps · rest 30–45 s

Alternatives for the same muscle