Exercise guide · beginner

Single-Arm Lat Pulldown

Single-Arm Lat Pulldown uses cables in a vertical pull movement that primarily trains back. Use it to build pulling strength through the back and arms.

back
FRONTBACK
PrimaryAlso worksOther anatomy
Equipment
cables
Typical range
8–20 reps
Also works
biceps, core

01 · Set up

1

Take the required grip for Single-Arm Lat Pulldown and secure your body against the pad or stable hanging position.

2

Start with long arms and shoulders controlled away from the ears.

02 · Perform

1

Drive the elbows down while bringing the chest toward the handle or bar.

2

Stop before the shoulders roll forward or the torso swings.

3

Return slowly to long arms while controlling the shoulder position.

Coaching tips

  • Pull elbows down.
  • Keep the chest tall.
  • Reach long without shrugging.

Common mistakes

  • Swinging to start the pull.
  • Pulling behind the neck.
  • Cutting the controlled return short.

What it should feel like

Expect controlled effort through the back, not sharp or joint-focused pain.

Stop or modify when

Stop or shorten the range for sharp, sudden, worsening, or joint-focused pain; choose a reviewed alternative when needed.

Reviewed alternatives

Other ways to train the same primary muscles

Half-Kneeling Single-Arm Band PulldownSeated Band Lat PulldownStraight-Arm Cable PulldownMachine Pullover