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Exercise guide

Cable Reverse Grip Pulldown

A complete movement guide from 4-Week Bigger Arms Program: Biceps and Triceps Focus: Progression Cycle 2

Back Machine StrengthPull
Cable Reverse Grip Pulldown exercise animation
Purpose and technique

How this exercise works

The Cable Reverse Grip Pulldown is an upper body exercise targeting the latissimus dorsi, biceps, and forearms. It involves pulling a cable bar down towards the chest with an underhand grip, emphasizing the lower lats and providing a unique angle of muscle engagement compared to traditional pulldowns.

LatissimusShoulders Back Back LowerBicepsForearms
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Description

Movement overview

The Cable Reverse Grip Pulldown is an upper body exercise targeting the latissimus dorsi, biceps, and forearms. It involves pulling a cable bar down towards the chest with an underhand grip, emphasizing the lower lats and providing a unique angle of muscle engagement compared to traditional pulldowns.

Execution

Step-by-step cues

  1. Attach a straight or EZ-curl bar to the high pulley of a cable machine.
  2. Sit on the bench or seat with your feet flat on the floor, securing your thighs under the support pads.
  3. Grasp the bar with an underhand grip (palms facing you), hands shoulder-width apart.
  4. Lean slightly back at the hips while keeping your chest up and core engaged.
  5. Pull the bar down towards your upper chest by driving your elbows down and back.
  6. Squeeze your shoulder blades together at the bottom of the movement.
  7. Slowly extend your arms to return to the starting position, maintaining control of the weight throughout.
Coach notes

Technical tips

  • Keep your elbows close to your body throughout the movement to maximize lat engagement.
  • Avoid using momentum; focus on controlled movements for optimal muscle activation.
  • Maintain a slight arch in your lower back to support proper posture.
  • Exhale as you pull the bar down and inhale as you return to the starting position.
  • Ensure that your grip is firm but not overly tight to prevent forearm fatigue.
Continue your session

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