The seal row is one of the most effective horizontal pulling exercises for developing the back; it is performed on a raised bench, which eliminates any postural compensation and allows for a full range of motion with a barbell.
A raised bench specifically designed to eliminate torso sway and postural compensation
A dedicated barbell with a design optimised for a prone grip
Suitable for powerlifting, athletic conditioning and strength training aimed at hypertrophy
Seal row: the Sidea selection
The seal row is a horizontal pulling exercise performed in a prone position on a raised bench, with the barbell starting from beneath the bench itself. Unlike the traditional bent-over row, the upper body is fully supported: there is no need to compensate with the legs, no lumbar hyperlordosis to manage, and no swaying of the torso. The result is an isolated and measurable workout for the back muscles — the latissimus dorsi, middle and lower trapezius, rhomboids and posterior deltoids — with a range of motion (ROM) that is often greater than that achievable in a standing position. Sidea recommends the following for this exercise: <a href=
Domande frequenti - seal row
-
In the bent-over row, the athlete maintains a bent-over posture whilst standing upright, with the stabilising muscles of the spine and legs working hard. In the seal row, the torso is supported by the bench: this eliminates postural compensations and isolates the work on the back muscles, often allowing for a greater range of motion and more precise load control.
-
Yes. The seal row is a horizontal pulling exercise that can be incorporated into any strength or hypertrophy programme. It is particularly useful for those who struggle to maintain correct form during the bent-over row under load, for athletes in the volume phase who wish to reduce strain on the lower back, and for those who train their back several times a week.
-
It is typically included as an accessory exercise — 2–3 sessions a week — following the main work on the deadlift or row. In hypertrophy programmes, it is used with medium-to-high rep ranges (6–12 reps), whilst in strength cycles it can be incorporated with heavier loads and low reps as accessory work to the deadlift.
-
The seal row bench is a single-station piece of equipment: one user at a time. In gyms with high usage rates, it is advisable to provide two stations if the number of regular users exceeds 3–4 people per session, or to incorporate it into a rotation programme alongside other back exercises.
-
A standard Olympic barbell works, but a barbell with a design specifically tailored for the seal row — such as the 9011/2 Sidea — offers a more ergonomic grip in the prone position and a more natural pulling motion. The difference becomes more noticeable with heavy loads and frequent use.
-
The primary muscles are the latissimus dorsi, the middle and lower trapezius, the rhomboids and the posterior shoulder muscles (posterior deltoid, infraspinatus and teres minor). The biceps and the brachialis act as synergists during the pull. The prone position eliminates the contribution of the postural muscles of the spine as the main stabilisers.
-
Sidea offers a range of instalment payment options to make it easier to purchase professional equipment. Please see the dedicated page: Payment options Sidea.
-
If you work in the fitness or sports sector, register on the website as a Professional or as an ASD to gain access to the price list reserved for industry professionals. Pro registration allows you to view exclusive discounts and special terms across the entire Sidea catalogue.
-
Yes, Sidea is an authorised supplier on the MEPA (Public Administration Electronic Marketplace). Public bodies, schools, universities, local authorities and public sports facilities can purchase Sidea equipment via the platform Public Sector Online Procurement. For information on product codes and direct MEPA orders, please contact Sidea customer service.
-
Sidea guarantees the right to cancel within 14 days of delivery for all online purchases, in accordance with current legislation. Products must be returned undamaged and in their original packaging. For full details on returns, refunds and the warranty, please see the page Terms and Conditions of Sale.
-
Sidea has been designing and distributing professional fitness equipment since 1999: over 25 years’ experience serving gyms, sports coaches, CrossFit boxes, personal training studios and enthusiasts of advanced home fitness. Official distributor StrongFirst e Luxiaojun, which is exhibiting at the FIBO international trade fair and is the technical sponsor of the Summit of Strength. Every product is designed with durability, functionality and suitability for real-world operational contexts in mind. The service Gym Design Offers bespoke design services with 3D renderings. A warehouse covering over 4,000 m² in Gambettola (FC) to ensure rapid order fulfilment, direct technical advice and a special price list for professionals and amateur sports clubs.

9021V Seal Row Bench
