Building a High School Weight Room from Scratch – Part 4

Upper Body Accessory Equipment

Joe Kenn, VP of Performance Education, Dynamic Fitness & Strength 

Introduction 

In the first three parts of this series, we built the foundation of a high school weight room and prioritized posterior chain development.

Now we finish the facility by adding upper-body accessory equipment.

Once again, these ideas represent how I personally would build a facility for the athletes I coach.

Every coach should ultimately design a room that fits their own program.

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Upper Body Equipment Priorities

Many lat pulldown machines already include a seated row attachment, giving us both vertical and horizontal pulling options.

If plate-loaded pulldowns are used instead, a separate row machine may be needed.

Beyond that, I would prioritize three additional upper-body machines.

Chest-Supported Row (40–45 Degrees)

INCLINE LEVER ROW (#713025)

The chest-supported row is one of my favorite upper-back exercises.

It allows athletes to train the back without excessive lower-back strain while building:

• Mid-back strength

• Posterior shoulder stability

• Rowing mechanics

Plate-Loaded Mid Row

ANGLED ROW BENCH (#716012)

The mid row provides another horizontal pulling variation that emphasizes:

• Scapular retraction

• Upper-back development

• Shoulder health

A strong back is essential for both pressing strength and shoulder injury prevention.

Neck Training Machines

HEAD AND NECK (#700030A)

Neck strength is often overlooked in athletic development.

A 4-way or 6-way neck machine allows athletes to progress beyond basic band and harness work.

Developing neck strength supports:

• Contact sport safety

• Head stabilization

• Injury prevention

Suggested Equipment Numbers

Ideal numbers will vary by facility size, but a possible structure might include:

• 4 Chest-Supported Rows

• 4 Mid Rows

• 4 Neck Machines

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Final Thoughts 

At the end of the day, the goal of a weight room is not to showcase equipment.

The goal is to develop athletes.

The best facilities are not necessarily the ones with the most machines.

They are the ones designed with clear purpose, thoughtful layout, and a coaching philosophy that drives every decision.

If you are in the process of designing a new facility, remember this:

Start with the athletes. Build from there.