Kneeling Pulldown (Cable)

Level
beginner
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
cable
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

A compound pulling movement performed from a kneeling position that develops lat and chest strength using cable resistance.

Instructions

  1. Set the cable pulley at an overhead position and attach a wide-grip or straight bar attachment.
  2. Kneel facing the cable machine with your torso upright and core engaged.
  3. Grasp the attachment with a wide grip, hands slightly wider than shoulder-width, with a slight forward lean.
  4. Pull the attachment down toward your upper chest, bringing your elbows down and back.
  5. Squeeze your lats and chest at the bottom of the movement, holding briefly.
  6. Return to the starting position in a controlled manner and repeat.

Tips

  • Maintain an upright kneeling posture and avoid excessive forward or backward lean during the pull.
  • Focus on pulling with your elbows rather than your hands to better engage the lats.
  • Keep your chest up throughout the movement for optimal lat activation.
  • Use a weight that allows full range of motion with controlled movement.
  • Avoid momentum at the top; maintain tension throughout the entire range.
  • If balance is an issue, perform this exercise with your hands closer together or use a machine version.

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 7 reps 27.5 kg 17.5 kg
Build muscle 3 10 reps 25 kg 17.5 kg
Build endurance 3 14 reps 20 kg 12.5 kg

Alternatives

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

intermediate strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength