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Last updated March 2, 2026
LatsLower BackTeres MajorTrapezius

Lat Pulldown (Cable)

Take a wide overhand grip. Pull the bar down to your upper chest, focusing on driving your elbows down towards the floor. Lean back slightly, but don't swing.

Quick facts

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

Muscle focus

Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.

Primary

Lats

Secondary

Biceps

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
    • Adjust the lat pulldown machine to fit your height, ensuring the bar is at or above your head.
    • Sit down on the bench with your feet flat on the floor and your knees secured under the pad.
  2. Step 2Grab the Bar
    • Reach up and grab the bar with an overhand grip, hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
    • Ensure your grip is firm but not overly tight, allowing for a smooth pull.
  3. Step 3Position Your Body
    • Sit up straight with your back against the pad and engage your core.
    • Keep your shoulders down and away from your ears to avoid tension.
  4. Step 4Pull the Bar Down
    • Pull the bar down towards your upper chest by bending your elbows and squeezing your shoulder blades together.
    • Focus on using your back muscles rather than your arms to perform the movement.
  5. Step 5Control the Release
    • Slowly allow the bar to rise back to the starting position with your arms fully extended.
    • Maintain control throughout the movement to avoid using momentum.
  6. Step 6Repeat
    • Repeat the pull and release for the desired number of repetitions, ensuring proper form with each rep.
  7. Step 7Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your reps, carefully release the bar and stand up from the machine.
    • Ensure you do not rush and maintain your balance as you exit the machine.

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Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025