Seated Cable Row Machine

Wookinpanub

FYI this is a "cable" machine and not in the same area as the other "machines" at my Y, if that makes a difference. There's a separate lat pull machine. I do these in lieu of the barbell rows in my modified SL 5X5 routine b/c of back pain and the extra time needed to deal with setting up the barbell and weights.

I have been using a v-bar handle (narrow grip). I have noticed as the weight has gotten heavy (pump iron!) that I have been experiencing some inner elbow pain. I can push on that bone on the underneath part of the elbow and feel pain.

Would a wider grip handle be better? Regardless of my elbow pain which grip is better to working the back and arm muscles?

XavierNusum

The distance between the hands is varied to try to isolate the inner or outer portions of the mid back (rhomboids, traps & rear delts) . I can definitely see how you'd get some elbow pain with the narrow grip and heavy weight. Try changing it up more often or using a "neutral" grip with heavier weights and narrower when you are repping it out. In addition, do some soft tissue work (message, foam rolling) on your forearms, biceps and triceps. Tight muscle and fascia can cause pain in the joint.

Timshel_

Just curious if you have tried dumbbell rows instead, and if so was there pain. It could simply be a function of the angle of weights resistance. Cable machines can pull down or up if the cable isn't straight on, which can cause discomfort. Doing a dumbbell row the weight is (usually) easier to keep straight as you pull up. In any case, doing a dumbbell row would let you know if there is joint discomfort or if it is a form issue. As you mention though, trying a wider grip might also let you know.

ninerbuff

The elbow pain is probably due to gripping and you're probably experiencing tendinitis. Does it hurt when you do curls too? Use a wider grip with palms facing down with a straight bar to see if there's a difference. Also if it doesn't hurt your elbow to do any presses, then it's more than likely "golfer's elbow".
If it persists, then rest it. Straps also help to alleviate tension from gripping.

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SaintGiff

I go extremely heavy on those with a narrow grip, but I would try to root around and find the proper attachment. If you're using simple V-shaped handle, then it will put your elbows in an unnatural position. Most places will have a handle that looks sort of like two stirrups welded together into a narrow V, but the angle it creates turns your palms up just a bit which takes stress off of your wrists and elbows.

Wookinpanub

SaintGiff wrote: »

I go extremely heavy on those with a narrow grip, but I would try to root around and find the proper attachment. If you're using simple V-shaped handle, then it will put your elbows in an unnatural position. Most places will have a handle that looks sort of like two stirrups welded together into a narrow V, but the angle it creates turns your palms up just a bit which takes stress off of your wrists and elbows.

Yeah I think that is the case that the v-handle is pulling my elbows in a weird way as the weight is getting heavy. I will try a different handle like u described or more neutral grip like Xavier recommended.