Q: Could you please explain how to do bent over rows? They're on my exercise program but I don't see a place that will tell me what they even are. - K.G., Tulsa, OK

A: Bentover rows are usually done with a barbell. There are a few variations on this exercise, but here's one common way to perform them:

Place the barbell on the floor in front of your ankles. Then, bending at the waist and knees, grasp the bar with palms down. (Your back should be almost parallel to the floor, your knees only slightly bent.) While maintaining this bent-at-the-waist position, pull the bar up to your chest; your elbows will flare out wide as you do so. Return the bar to the floor and repeat as called for in the workout. As you repeat the exercise, it will look as if you're rowing a boat in a bent over position. One caution: If you have back trouble, be cautious with this exercise. Placing your forehead on a padded stool when bent over can help reduce this exercise's strain on your back.

Source: fitlinxx.com