Struggling with barbell rows, any suggestions?

I've been doing SL5X5 for two months now, and I'm still struggling with the barbell row. I am doing bar plus 5 - so 50 pounds, but I just can't seem to get further. I've watched both the Medhi and Rippetoe (sorry if I got the spellings wrong) videos, and even found a few others on YouTube. I just cannot go up in weight or I immediately feel it in my lower back.
I'm tempted to try something else instead. Maybe I just really can't do a barbell row.
I'm 47 years old. I currently squat 100, bench 70, deadlift 65 and overhead press 45.
The overhead press was a real challenge for me up until last week, I finally nailed the form and will be moving up in weight this week.
Any suggestions are welcome. I really enjoy this workout and would love to be able to do the barbell row.

Replies

  • acpgee
    acpgee Posts: 7,965 Member
    Try bent over dumbell rows instead? Do watch your form in the mirror to make you aren't twisting and keep your back flat and stationary and abs contracted. I like cable rows too.