Kroc Row

PullDBBench

High-rep, heavy single-arm dumbbell row popularized by powerlifter Janae 'Kroc' Marie Kroc-Duffy. Uses a slightly looser form than a standard single-arm row, permitting some body English and hip drive to move very heavy weight for high reps (12-20+), building grip, traps, and lat mass simultaneously.

Demo: Elite FTS

Sets

3

Reps

12-20+

Rest

2 min

Contraindications

Requires solid baseline row technique first; not appropriate for lifters with acute low back issues.

Setup

Same base position as a single-arm dumbbell row, but choose a significantly heavier dumbbell than typical strict-row weight.

Execution

  1. 1Brace the core and set a stable base, similar to a single-arm row
  2. 2Allow controlled hip drive/body English to help initiate the heaviest reps
  3. 3Row explosively, driving the elbow back and slightly up
  4. 4Lower with control, resetting position between reps as needed

Key cues

  • Grip is often the limiter here — use straps if needed for max loading
  • Some body English is expected and intentional, unlike a strict row
  • Push for high reps (12-20+) once the weight is heavy
  • Keep breathing rhythmic — this is a grinding, high-effort set

Common faults

  • Losing all positional control and turning it into an uncontrolled heave
  • Rounding the low back excessively under the heavier load
  • Neglecting grip training, leaving major strength on the table
  • Attempting this as a first row variation before building strict-row technique

Tweaks

  • Use lifting straps to remove grip as the limiting factor
  • Pair with strict single-arm rows in the same session for contrast
  • Build up load progressively week to week, tracking rep PRs

Regressions

Muscles

Primary: Latissimus Dorsi, Trapezius, Forearms

Secondary: Rhomboids, Biceps Brachii, Erector Spinae

Notes

Named after powerlifter Janae Kroc; intentionally looser technique than a strict single-arm row, prioritizing overload and grip demand over strict isolation.

Sources

Attribution: Janae 'Kroc' Marie Kroc-Duffy