Upper Back, Rear Delt

Bulgarian Row with gym rings

Bulgarian Rows on gymnastic rings are an advanced variation of classic ring rows. In this exercise, the elbows are intentionally flared outward to specifically target and intensify the engagement of the upper back muscles.

Necessary equipment

Bulgarian Row with gym rings - the correct execution

  • Start in a low rowing position
  • Pull the shoulder blades back down
  • Bring the elbows out
  • Pull the rings towards the chest
  • Lower yourself back to the starting position
  • Keep permanent tension in core and glutes

The exercise Bulgarian Row is intended to be used as a hypertrophy exercise.

Which muscles are trained by Bulgarian Row?

Primary trained muscles for Bulgarian Row

  • Upper Back - The muscles in the upper back, including the trapezius and rhomboid muscles, help move and stabilize your shoulders. They pull the shoulder blades together and support posture.

  • Rear Delts - The rear part of the deltoid muscle, also known as the posterior shoulder, is located at the back of the shoulder. It is responsible for the backward movement of the arm as well as external rotation. This muscle is particularly engaged during activities like rowing or pulling the arm back. The rear shoulder supports posture and helps pull the shoulder blades back, contributing to shoulder stabilization.

Calisthenics training, developed by sports scientists and optimized by smart algorithms, for your best workout.

Over 1000 five-star reviews on App Store and Google Play.

Download on Google PlayDownload on the App Store

Alternative variants of Bulgarian Row with gym rings:

Bulgarian Row Bent Legs with gym rings

Bulgarian Rows with bent legs are a simplified version of Bulgarian Rows, where bending the legs reduces the load on the pulling muscles. This adjustment helps maintain a clean and controlled technique. This variation is ideal for performing the exercise more smoothly or achieving more repetitions when rowing with straight legs is still too challenging.

Necessary equipment

Bulgarian Row Bent Legs with gym rings - the correct execution

  • Start in rowing position with bent legs
  • Pull the shoulder blades back and down
  • Bring the elbows out
  • Pull the rings towards the chest
  • Stretch arms and return to starting position
  • Keep tension in core and glutes
  • Work in the largest possible range of motion

Bulgarian Row High Position with gym rings

In elevated Bulgarian Rows, the body is positioned almost upright, significantly reducing the difficulty of the exercise. This upright angle requires much less pulling strength, making it an excellent choice for beginners or for focusing on proper technique.

Necessary equipment

Bulgarian Row High Position with gym rings - the correct execution

  • Grab the rings at foot level and take 1-2 steps backwards into an inclined rowing position
  • Alternatively, you can set the rings a little higher
  • Arms are extended and shoulders are low
  • Pull your body to the rings
  • Move elbows outward at shoulder level
  • In the final position pull the shoulder blades together
  • Extend the arms completely again
  • Keep permanent tension in core and glutes
  • The more upright you stand, the easier the exercise becomes
  • Take small steps towards the suspension to increase intensity
  • Choose an intensity that will challenge you for the number of repetitions indicated