Back exercises: choose by purpose.

Train the lats, middle back, traps and spinal erectors with vertical pulls, rows, hinges and loaded carries. Compare practical options and choose movements by purpose, equipment and progression.

DIRECT ANSWER

Back exercises are movements used to train the lats, middle back, traps and spinal erectors with vertical pulls, rows, hinges and loaded carries. Exercise choice should fit the athlete, equipment and weekly programme rather than a universal ranking.

What belongs in this group

Train the lats, middle back, traps and spinal erectors with vertical pulls, rows, hinges and loaded carries.

Common options

These examples cover distinct setups rather than a ranked list.

  • Lat pulldown
  • Chest-supported row
  • One-arm cable row
  • Romanian deadlift

How to choose

Combine at least one vertical pull with a row when the goal calls for broad back work; manage unsupported-row fatigue against lower-body training.

Keep the chosen movement stable long enough to compare performance, unless pain, equipment or programme fit requires a change.

Catalogue quality

Bulk Coach's exercise catalogue contains names, instructions, muscles, equipment, movement patterns and substitutions. Individual exercise URLs remain outside the sitemap until their instructions and added programming guidance receive a recorded founder review.

Sources and further reading

  1. Free Exercise DB public-domain source
Updated 7 August 2026Reviewed by James Wood, founder