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Exercise Guide
How to do lat pulldown(wide bar)
Master the setup, range of motion, and tempo for safer, more effective reps.
The wide-bar lat pulldown is a staple back exercise that primarily targets the latissimus dorsi, helping to create a wider, V-tapered physique. By using a wide grip, the movement emphasizes the outer portions of the back and engages the rhomboids and traps. It is an excellent alternative to pull-ups for building vertical pulling strength and improving posture by strengthening the back.
Stats
TIER
1
DIFFICULTY
Untrained to Advanced
EQUIPMENT
Lat Pulldown
TARGET MUSCLES
Back, Biceps, Rear Shoulder
Instructions for Proper Form
Setup:
- Cable Machine: Sit at a lat pulldown machine with the pulley on the highest setting and adjust the knee pad to fit your height securely.
- Attachment: Attach a wide bar to the high pulley.
- Grip: Grasp the bar with a wide overhand grip, hands wider than shoulder-width apart.
- Body Position: Sit tall, chest up, and lean back slightly, maintaining a natural arch in your lower back.
The Lift:
- Initiate the Pull: Exhale and pull the bar down towards your upper chest. Keep your elbows pointing down and focus on driving them down towards the floor.
- Chest Contact (Optional): Aim to lightly touch the bar to your upper chest, if comfortable.
- Controlled Return: Inhale and slowly return the bar to the starting position, extending your arms fully overhead.
Tips:
- Focus on the Lats: Concentrate on using your latissimus dorsi (the large muscles on your back) to pull the bar down.
- Elbow Position: Aim to keep your elbows pointing down and out to the sides throughout the movement.
- Neutral Spine: Maintain a natural arch in your lower back and avoid rounding your shoulders.
- Control the Movement: Avoid swinging your torso or using momentum. The movement should be smooth and controlled.
Common mistakes: Pulling the bar behind the neck, leaning back excessively, and using momentum rather than the lats.
Alternatives
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Dumbbell
dumbbell bent over row
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Pull Up Bar
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Pull Up Bar
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Lat Pulldown
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Pull Up Bar
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Row Cable
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Barbell
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Cable
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BackRear Shoulder
Barbell
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Bench
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Front Pulldown
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Barbell
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Barbell
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Landmine
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Low Row Machine
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Barbell
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Pulldown Machine
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Lat Pulldown
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High Row Machine
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Row Cable
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Seated Row Machine
machine seated row
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Cable
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BackRear Shoulder
None
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BackBiceps
None
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Row Cable
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Rings
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Squat Rack
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Kettlebell
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Rings
ring suspended row
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Dumbbell
dumbbell pull over
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Resistance Band
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Rowing Machine
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