Ab Pulldown (Cable)
Isolation exercise for the core performed by pulling a rope attachment downward to crunch the abs against resistance from a cable machine.
Instructions
- Attach a rope to a high pulley and stand facing the machine with feet shoulder-width apart.
- Grasp the rope with both hands at chest level, with the rope draped over your shoulders.
- Keep a slight bend in your knees and engage your core.
- Crunch downward by pulling the rope down and flexing your abs.
- Bring your elbows toward your hips while maintaining the rope position across your shoulders.
- Pause briefly at the bottom, then slowly return to the starting position.
Tips
- Focus on the contraction in your abs rather than pulling with your arms.
- Keep constant tension on the abs throughout the movement.
- Avoid leaning backward or using momentum to pull the weight.
- Use a controlled, deliberate pace to maximize muscle engagement.
- Perform this exercise in higher rep ranges (12-20 reps) for best results.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | |||
| Gain strength | 3 | 15 reps | 10 kg | 7.5 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 18 reps | 7.5 kg | 7.5 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 25 reps | 5 kg | 5 kg |
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