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Last updated March 2, 2026
LatsLower BackTeres MajorTrapezius

Lat Pulldown - Wide (Machine)

Sit securely with thighs under the pads. Grasp the bar wider than shoulder-width. Pull the bar down to your chin, squeezing your lats.

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

Upper Lats / Teres

Equipment & setup

What you need and how to position yourself before starting.

Equipment

Weight Machines / Selectorized

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 on 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 that you can handle comfortably.
  2. Step 2Grab the Bar
    • Reach up and grab the wide bar with an overhand grip, hands positioned wider than shoulder-width apart.
    • Ensure your grip is firm and your arms are fully extended above you.
  3. Step 3Position Your Body
    • Sit up straight with your back against the pad, keeping your chest lifted and shoulders down.
    • Engage your core to maintain stability throughout the movement.
  4. Step 4Pull the Bar Down
    • Pull the bar down towards your upper chest by bending your elbows and squeezing your shoulder blades together.
    • Keep your elbows pointed down and back, avoiding any swinging or jerking motions.
  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 you maintain 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 adjust the weight back to zero or the appropriate setting for the next user.

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Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025