Face Pull (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Level
beginner
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
trx
Category
strength

A horizontal pulling exercise that targets the rear delts, traps, and upper back by pulling toward the face with the elbows high.

Instructions

  1. Anchor the TRX straps at mid-length or slightly higher.
  2. Face the anchor point and grip the handles at approximately eye to forehead height.
  3. Walk your feet forward to achieve the desired angle—more horizontal for greater resistance.
  4. Keep your body in a straight line and your core engaged.
  5. Pull your face toward the handles by driving your elbows high and out.
  6. Pause briefly at the top when your hands are near your face or slightly wider.
  7. Lower yourself in a controlled manner back to the starting position.
  8. Repeat for the desired number of reps.

Tips

  • Keep your elbows high and drive them out to the sides, not downward.
  • Pull toward your face/eyes, not to your chest, to maximize rear delt and upper back engagement.
  • This movement emphasizes postural muscles and posterior shoulder health.
  • Control the eccentric phase to maintain muscle engagement.
  • Adjust your body angle to modify resistance and allow proper form throughout.

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
Gain strength 3 7 reps
Build muscle 3 10 reps
Build endurance 3 14 reps

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

beginner strength