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Exercise Guide

How to do sliding floor pulldown on towel

Master the setup, range of motion, and tempo for safer, more effective reps.

The sliding floor pulldown is a unique bodyweight exercise designed to target the lats and upper back without a pull-up bar. By lying face down on a smooth floor and using a towel to pull your body forward, you simulate a vertical pulling motion. This exercise is perfect for home workouts, focusing on shoulder mobility, core stability, and intense back muscle engagement.

Stats

TIER
3
DIFFICULTY
Untrained to Advanced
EQUIPMENT
None
TARGET MUSCLES
Back, Biceps

Instructions for Proper Form

Setup:

  1. Prone position: Start in plank position face down on the floor with your legs bend behind you.
  2. Towel placement: Place a small towel under your knees for added comfort during the slide.
  3. Arm and body position: Extend your arms out in front of you, a little wider than shoulder-width apart. Engage your core by squeezing your abs and glutes. Maintain a straight line from your head to your hips, keeping your hips lifted off the ground.

The Lift:

  1. Initiate the pull: Engaging your lats, pull your knees towards your arms by initiating the movement with your back muscles. Think about pushing your chest towards your hands.
  2. Slide and control: As you pull your chest towards you arms, your body will naturally slide forward on the towel. Maintain a controlled slide with your core tight to prevent your hips from sagging.
  3. Straighten and return: Slowly push chest out to the starting position, maintaining the straight line with your head and hips.
  4. Repeat: Perform the desired number of repetitions with smooth, controlled movements.

Tips:

  • Focus on back and core: Concentrate on initiating the movement with your lats and core, feeling the work in your back muscles as you pull your knees in.
  • Maintain a tight core: A strong core is essential for stability and preventing your lower back from arching.

Common mistakes: Arching the lower back excessively and failing to keep constant downward pressure on the towel.

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