Exercise 119

Close-Grip High Cable Pulldown

Vertical pulling movement that works the biceps, back, and forearms while keeping the shoulders stable and controlling the return of the load.

Athletic Station visual preview for Close-Grip High Cable Pulldown
Visual preview • Athletic Station

How to perform it

  1. Sit at the cable station with your spine upright, feet firmly on the floor, and abs engaged.
  2. Hold the triangle handle with a neutral grip, keeping your arms extended overhead at the start.
  3. Keep your chest open and shoulders stable before beginning the pull.
  4. Pull the triangle handle downward with control, driving your elbows toward the sides of your torso.
  5. Focus the effort on your back muscles and avoid excessively leaning your body or using momentum.
  6. Bring the attachment toward the upper chest or through a comfortable range while maintaining posture.
  7. Return slowly to the starting position, extending your arms with control without letting the weight drop.
  8. Exhale as you pull and inhale as you return, maintaining a steady rhythm throughout the set.

What you should feel

Greater activation of the back, especially the lats, with involvement of the biceps and forearms. The contraction should remain controlled through the upper torso, without pain in the shoulders, neck, or lower back.

Groups mentioned in the description

Exercise questions

How do you perform Close-Grip High Cable Pulldown?

Sit at the cable station with your spine upright, feet firmly on the floor, and abs engaged. Hold the triangle handle with a neutral grip, keeping your arms extended overhead at the start. Keep your chest open and shoulders stable before beginning the pull. Pull the triangle handle downward with control, driving your elbows toward the sides of your torso. Focus the effort on your back muscles and avoid excessively leaning your body or using momentum. Bring the attachment toward the upper chest or through a comfortable range while maintaining posture. Return slowly to the starting position, extending your arms with control without letting the weight drop. Exhale as you pull and inhale as you return, maintaining a steady rhythm throughout the set.

What does Close-Grip High Cable Pulldown work?

Vertical pulling movement that works the biceps, back, and forearms while keeping the shoulders stable and controlling the return of the load.

What should you feel during Close-Grip High Cable Pulldown?

Greater activation of the back, especially the lats, with involvement of the biceps and forearms. The contraction should remain controlled through the upper torso, without pain in the shoulders, neck, or lower back.

The guidance above organizes the content from the Athletic Station exercise base. Adapt the movement to your individual condition and stop if you experience pain.