What is the prime mover for the seated cable row exercise?

The prime mover for the seated cable row exercise is the latissimus dorsi, commonly referred to as the lats. When performing a seated cable row, the movement primarily involves pulling the handles towards the torso, which effectively engages the lats. These muscles are responsible for the adduction and extension of the shoulder joint, making them the primary muscle worked during this exercise.

Although other muscles such as the rhomboids and deltoids assist during the movement by stabilizing the shoulder blades and shoulder joint respectively, and the triceps may assist in elbow extension, they are not the main drivers of the pulling motion. The focus on the lats as the primary muscle contribution is critical for achieving the desired strength and hypertrophy benefits associated with this exercise. The engagement of the lats is essential for effective back development and overall upper body strength.