ACSM Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

What happens during a cable seated row exercise?

1. Shoulder hyperextension

2. Scapula adduction

3. Elbow extension

4. Knee flexion

The correct answer is: Scapula adduction

During a cable seated row exercise, the primary movement involves scapula adduction. This refers to the motion where the shoulder blades move closer together as you pull the handles towards your torso. The exercise effectively engages the muscles of the upper back, particularly the rhomboids and trapezius, which are responsible for this action. When you perform a seated row, your arms extend in front of you and then pull the cable towards your body. As your arms bend and you draw your shoulders back, the scapulae retract, allowing you to develop strength in the back muscles that are crucial for good posture and shoulder stability. It's important to note that while other movements may occur during the exercise, such as elbow flexion as the arms pull the cable and the potential for some degree of shoulder movement, the most significant and defining action in the context of this exercise is indeed the adduction of the scapula. Hence, this makes it the correct answer.