Straight-Arm Pulldown
Cable isolation exercise for the lats.
Updated
The straight-arm pulldown isolates the lats through shoulder extension while minimizing elbow movement. It is an excellent accessory exercise for improving pulling strength.
Muscle Groups
Primary: Lats
Secondary: Teres Major, Core
Equipment: Stinger Functional Cable Tower
Attachments: Straight Bar, Rope
Variations: Standing, Kneeling
Exercise Instructions
- Attach a straight bar or rope to the upper pulley.
- Stand facing the machine with arms extended.
- Maintain a slight bend in your elbows.
- Pull the attachment downward toward your thighs.
- Squeeze your lats at the bottom.
- Slowly return until your arms are overhead.
- Repeat using controlled movement.
Tips
- Keep your elbows almost fixed.
- Think about pulling with your lats.
- Keep your chest lifted.
- Avoid bending your elbows during the movement.
Common Mistakes
- Turning the exercise into a triceps pushdown.
- Excessive elbow flexion.
- Leaning over too much.
- Using momentum.