Overview

Lat pulldowns build strength and definition in the upper back “lat” muscles. Lat pulldowns are an appropriate substitute for beginners who can’t perform pull-ups or chin-ups. The wide grip lat pulldown activates the latissimus dorsi muscle which provides the sought after “V” taper bodybuilders desire most.

Description

• Start with your hands on the bar slightly wider than shoulder-width, arms straight and palms facing forward.
• Pull the bar straight down under your chin, toward the top of your chest.
• Keep your chest up and your elbows out to the side.
• Return slowly to the top, with your arms straight again.

Mistakes

• Pulling the elbows too far behind the body instead of straight back and down
• Dropping the chest down
• Leaning back excessively
• Shrugging the shoulders up as you pull down