Exercise guide · beginner

Wide-Grip Lat Pulldown

Wide-Grip 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
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Equipment
cables
Typical range
6–15 reps
Also works
biceps

01 · Set up

1

Take the required grip for Wide-Grip 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

Close-Grip Lat PulldownLat PulldownNeutral-Grip Lat PulldownUnderhand Lat Pulldown