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StrengthbeginnerCable

Straight-Arm Pulldown

Primary
Lats
Equipment
Cable
Level
beginner

Straight-Arm Pulldown demonstration

Straight-Arm Pulldown, starting position
Straight-Arm Pulldown, starting position
Straight-Arm Pulldown, finishing position
Straight-Arm Pulldown, finishing position

How to Perform

  1. 1You will start by grabbing the wide bar from the top pulley of a pulldown machine and using a wider than shoulder-width pronated (palms down) grip. Step backwards two feet or so.
  2. 2Bend your torso forward at the waist by around 30-degrees with your arms fully extended in front of you and a slight bend at the elbows. If your arms are not fully extended then you need to step a bit more backwards until they are. Once your arms are fully extended and your torso is slightly bent at the waist, tighten the lats and then you are ready to begin.
  3. 3While keeping the arms straight, pull the bar down by contracting the lats until your hands are next to the side of the thighs. Breathe out as you perform this step.
  4. 4While keeping the arms straight, go back to the starting position while breathing in.
  5. 5Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Video Tutorial

Tips & Common Mistakes

  • •Focus on controlled movements rather than speed or momentum
  • •Maintain proper breathing - exhale during the exertion phase
  • •Start with lighter weight to master the form before progressing
  • •This is a great exercise for beginners - focus on form over reps

Muscles Worked

Front
Back
Lats

Exercise Details

Category
Strength
Force
pull
Mechanic
isolation
Level
beginner

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Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Straight-Arm Pulldown work?

Straight-Arm Pulldown primarily targets the Lats.

What equipment do I need for Straight-Arm Pulldown?

Straight-Arm Pulldown requires Cable.

Is Straight-Arm Pulldown suitable for beginners?

Yes, Straight-Arm Pulldown is suitable for beginners. It's classified as a beginner-level exercise.

Alternatives to Straight-Arm Pulldown

Substitute any of these when the equipment is taken or unavailable. They train the same primary muscles.