Barbell Rows

[kfrancis1492]

Today I started Stronglifts 5x5 program, and I had some trouble with rows. I can not seem to keep my back straight when the bar is on the floor so I set it on the bench I use for bench press. Is that ok, rather than it being on the floor? Also, I read that the bar should touch your chest where it does on bench press, mine touches a little below my chest and it is extremely hard for me to get it to where it touches on bench press. Does anyone else have that problem and will the exercise still be effective? thanks

[71Avido]

Starting position of the bar doesn't really matter.
I start with the bar on the safeties of the squat rack and just bend over until I'm at the desired angle.

As for as not being able to touch your sternum, it's likely because you're not bent over far enough or your grip.
Overhand/underhand will change the dynamics of the lift also.

[kfrancis1492]

ok, how far should I be bent over exactly? should my back be at an angle or as close to 90 degrees as I can get it?

[Lethal302]

Doesn't matter where the bar starts. Chest up ass out elbows straight back is my best advice