Machine Pullover

Level
beginner
Force
pull
Mechanic
isolation
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

An isolation exercise performed on a machine that targets the latissimus dorsi through a pulling motion, building back width and chest engagement.

Instructions

  1. Sit in the pullover machine with your back firmly against the pad and feet on the floor.
  2. Position your upper arms perpendicular to your body, holding onto the handles.
  3. Keep your elbows slightly bent throughout the movement.
  4. Pull the handles downward and toward you in a smooth arc, contracting your lats.
  5. Bring your hands toward the sides of your torso/hips.
  6. Pause briefly at the bottom position, squeezing the lat muscles.
  7. Slowly return the handles to the starting position, allowing your arms to extend upward and back.
  8. Repeat for the prescribed number of repetitions.

Tips

  • Maintain your back position against the pad throughout the entire movement.
  • Focus on pulling with your lats rather than using arm strength.
  • Keep your elbows slightly bent to reduce stress on the joints.
  • Move through the full range of motion, from arms extended to arms pulled down.
  • Control the eccentric (return) phase to maximize muscle tension.
  • Use a controlled tempo; avoid jerky or explosive movements.

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 9 reps 17 kg 11 kg
Build muscle 3 13 reps 15 kg 10 kg
Build endurance 3 16 reps 11 kg 7 kg

Alternatives

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

beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength

Single Arm Row (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

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Single Arm Straight Arm Pulldown (Cable)

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Straight-Arm Pulldown (Bar Attachment)

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Straight-Arm Pulldown (Rope Attachment)

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