Yes, to an extent. It’s not as effective as a regular biceps curl, for example, but using rowing machines does activate the biceps brachii muscle group, along with other arm muscles. During the Drive phase of the rowing movement, as your elbow bends and moves alongside your body, the biceps muscles contract. Additionally, during the Recovery Phase, your biceps, along with your triceps, eccentrically engage to help maintain control of the handle.