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Lats · Cable · Beginner

How to do Cable Pushdown (Straight Arm)

The cable pushdown (straight arm) is an isolation exercise primarily targeting the latissimus dorsi (lats) using a cable machine with a straight bar attachment. It also engages the triceps and shoulders as secondary muscles. The movement requires maintaining straight arms and a stable core throughout the exercise.

Cable Pushdown (Straight Arm) demonstration
Primary muscle
Lats
Also works
Triceps and Shoulders
Equipment
Cable
Level
Beginner
Category
Back

How to do Cable Pushdown (Straight Arm), step by step

  1. Attach a straight bar to a high pulley cable machine.
  2. Stand facing the machine with your feet shoulder-width apart and a slight bend in your knees.
  3. Grasp the bar with an overhand grip, keeping your arms straight and your palms facing down.
  4. Engage your core and keep your back straight as you exhale and push the bar down towards your thighs.
  5. Pause for a moment at the bottom, then slowly return the bar to the starting position while inhaling.
  6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Muscles worked

Cable Pushdown (Straight Arm) works your lats as the main mover, with help from your triceps and shoulders.

Track Cable Pushdown (Straight Arm) in SPLYT

Cable Pushdown (Straight Arm) is already in SPLYT’s exercise library. Log your sets, reps and weight on iPhone or Apple Watch, with last time’s weights already filled in.

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