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Last updated March 2, 2026
LatsLower BackTeres MajorTrapezius

Lat Pulldown - Behind Neck, Wide Grip (Cable)

Caution: Pull the bar down behind your head. Only do this if you have flexible shoulders. Stop at ear level to avoid injury.

Quick facts

Level
Intermediate
Mechanic
Compound
Force
Pull
Type
Strength
Injury Risk
High
Hypertrophy
Very High
Calorie Burn
Medium

Muscle focus

Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.

Primary

Lats

Secondary

Upper Back / Rhomboids

Equipment & setup

What you need and how to position yourself before starting.

Equipment

Cable

Movement pattern

Bilateral

Posture

Seated

Tracking parameters

repsweight

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.

  1. Step 1Setup
    • Sit down at the lat pulldown machine and adjust the seat height so that your knees are secured under the pad.
    • Select an appropriate weight on the machine.
  2. Step 2Grab the Bar
    • Using a wide grip, grasp the bar with your palms facing forward and your hands positioned wider than shoulder-width apart.
    • Ensure your grip is firm and your arms are fully extended.
  3. Step 3Position Your Body
    • Sit upright with your back straight, chest up, and shoulders relaxed.
    • Engage your core to maintain stability throughout the movement.
  4. Step 4Pull the Bar Down
    • Pull the bar down behind your neck by bending your elbows and driving them down and back.
    • Focus on squeezing your shoulder blades together as you pull the bar down.
  5. Step 5Lower the Bar
    • Slowly return the bar to the starting position with your arms fully extended.
    • Maintain control of the weight as you lower it.
  6. Step 6Repeat
    • Repeat the pull and lower for the desired number of reps, ensuring you maintain proper form throughout.
  7. Step 7Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your reps, carefully release the bar and stand up from the machine.
    • Make sure to adjust the machine back to its original state if necessary.

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Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025