Standing Lat Pulldown
Strengthen your back & improve posture with the Standing Lat Pulldown! A great exercise for building upper body strength.
The Standing Lat Pulldown is a compound exercise that mainly works the back, with help from the traps. You'll need: cable machine.
Required Equipment

Standing Lat Pulldown Muscles Worked
Primary
Lats (latissimus dorsi); Rhomboids (Shoulder Blade) (rhomboids, major & minor)
Secondary
Mid Traps (trapezius, middle fibers); Outer Lats (teres major)
Standing Lat Pulldown Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Standing Lat Pulldown
Starting Position:
Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart. If using a resistance band or cable machine, secure it above your head.
Extend your arms overhead with your palms facing forward or toward each other.
Engagement:
Engage your core by tightening your abdominal muscles.
Keep your shoulders relaxed and away from your ears.
Movement:
Pull your arms down toward your sides in a controlled manner, bending your elbows to approximately 90 degrees.
Focus on squeezing your shoulder blades together as you pull down.
Keep your chest lifted and avoid leaning forward or arching your back.
Return:
Slowly return your arms to the starting position, maintaining control throughout the movement.
Avoid letting your arms simply drop; keep resistance throughout the range of motion.
Repetitions:
Aim for 10–15 repetitions, depending on your fitness level.
Perform 2–3 sets with 30-60 seconds of rest in between.
Form Check:
Ensure your neck is relaxed and not strained.
Focus on your back muscles, not your arms, doing the work.
Maintain a steady and controlled pace, avoiding any jerking movements.
Cool Down:
After completing your sets, gently stretch your arms and back to promote flexibility and recovery.
Note: Always listen to your body. If you experience pain or discomfort, stop the exercise and consult a fitness professional.
Standing Lat Pulldown FAQs
What muscles does the Standing Lat Pulldown work?
The Standing Lat Pulldown mainly works the back, with help from the traps. The main muscles are the latissimus dorsi and rhomboids.
What equipment do you need for the Standing Lat Pulldown?
Cable machine.
Is the Standing Lat Pulldown 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 Standing Lat Pulldown go on?
It belongs on pull day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Standing Lat Pulldown variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Cable Standing Lat Pushdown, Chest & Back Pull, Lying Lat Row and Rear Pull-Up.
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