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Last updated February 2, 2026
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latslower backteres majortrapezius

Lat Pulldown - One Arm (Cable)

Attach a single handle. Pull down with one arm while keeping your torso steady. This helps fix asymmetry in back strength.

Quick facts

Difficulty
Easy
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

Unilateral

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 cable machine to a suitable height, ensuring the pulley is at the top.
    • Attach a single handle to the cable and select an appropriate weight.
  2. Step 2Position Your Body
    • Stand next to the cable machine with your feet shoulder-width apart.
    • Grab the handle with one hand, keeping your arm extended and your palm facing forward.
  3. Step 3Engage Your Core
    • Engage your core muscles to maintain stability throughout the exercise.
    • Keep your back straight and shoulders relaxed.
  4. Step 4Pull the Handle
    • Pull the handle down towards your chest by bending your elbow and driving it down and back.
    • Focus on squeezing your shoulder blade down and back as you pull.
  5. Step 5Control the Movement
    • Slowly return the handle to the starting position, fully extending your arm.
    • Maintain control throughout the movement to avoid using momentum.
  6. Step 6Repeat
    • Perform the desired number of repetitions on one side before switching to the other arm.
    • Ensure you maintain proper form with each repetition.
  7. Step 7Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your sets, carefully release the handle and step away from the machine.
    • Make sure to adjust the weight back to its original position if necessary.
Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025