Appears in642 Workouts*

Smith-Machine High Pull

Power up your traps and shoulders! This Smith machine exercise builds strength and definition with controlled, supported movements.

The Smith-Machine High Pull is a compound exercise that mainly works the traps and back, with help from the biceps and chest. You'll need: smith machine.

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Required Equipment

Smith Machine
Smith Machine

Smith-Machine High Pull Muscles Worked

Primary

Upper Traps (trapezius, upper fibers); Rhomboids (Shoulder Blade) (rhomboids, major & minor)

Secondary

Biceps (biceps brachii); Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head)

How to do the Smith-Machine High Pull

  1. Setup:

    • Adjust the Smith machine bar to about waist height.

    • Stand in front of the bar with your feet shoulder-width apart.

  2. Positioning:

    • Bend your knees slightly and hinge at your hips to grasp the bar with an overhand grip (palms facing you) slightly wider than shoulder-width.

    • Your arms should be fully extended, and your torso should be at a slight forward angle.

  3. Starting Position:

    • Stand tall, ensuring your back is straight and your core is engaged. This is your starting position.

  4. Movement:

    • Begin the lift by driving through your legs, extending your hips upward while pulling the bar up towards your chin.

    • Use your arms and shoulders to assist in lifting the bar. Ensure your elbows lead the movement, staying higher than your wrists.

    • As the bar approaches your chin, aim to keep it close to your body.

  5. Top Position:

    • At the top of the movement, your elbows should be fully raised, and the bar should be at chin level.

    • Hold for a brief moment.

  6. Lowering the Bar:

    • Slowly lower the bar back to the starting position, maintaining control throughout the movement.

  7. Repetitions:

    • Perform 8 to 12 repetitions, resting briefly between sets as needed.

Tips:

  • Keep your movements smooth and controlled to avoid injury.

  • Focus on using your shoulders and upper back during the lift.

  • Start with a light weight to master the form before increasing the load.

Smith-Machine High Pull FAQs

What muscles does the Smith-Machine High Pull work?

The Smith-Machine High Pull mainly works the traps and back, with help from the biceps and chest. The main muscles are the trapezius and rhomboids.

What equipment do you need for the Smith-Machine High Pull?

Smith machine.

Is the Smith-Machine High Pull a compound exercise?

Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.

What workout day should the Smith-Machine High Pull go on?

It belongs on pull day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Smith-Machine High Pull variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Smith-Machine Close-Grip Back Shrug, Smith-Machine Back Shrug, Smith-Machine Behind-Neck Press and Smith-Machine Hang Clean.

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