Exercise library · Back

Close-Grip Lat Pulldown.

A compound back exercise that targets the lats and mid-back, promoting width and thickness, with significant biceps involvement.

BeginnerCable Machine
Close-Grip Lat Pulldown
The numbers
Sets
3–5
Reps
5–10
Rest
90–180
Muscles
Primary
Lats · Mid back
Secondary
Biceps · Rear delts
The play-by-play

How to do it.

  1. Step 01

    Sit at the lat pulldown machine, securing your knees under the pads.

  2. Step 02

    Grasp the V-bar attachment with a close, neutral grip.

  3. Step 03

    Lean back slightly, maintaining a natural arch in your lower back.

  4. Step 04

    Pull the bar down towards your upper chest, squeezing your shoulder blades.

  5. Step 05

    Focus on driving your elbows down and back.

  6. Step 06

    Slowly allow the bar to ascend, controlling the stretch in your lats.

What separates good from great

Pro cues.

  • Avoid using excessive momentum or leaning too far back.

  • Focus on the mind-muscle connection with your lats.

  • Ensure a full stretch at the top of the movement.