Wide-Grip Pulldown Behind The Neck Exercise
Builds strength and control by improving stability, coordination, and efficient movement.
Description
Wide-grip pulldown behind the neck focuses on controlled movement and maintaining proper body alignment throughout the exercise. The goal is to create tension where needed while avoiding unnecessary strain or momentum. This helps improve movement quality, joint stability, and overall physical control.
Instructions:
- Sit down on a pull-down machine with a wide bar attached to the top pulley. Make sure that you adjust the knee pad of the machine to fit your height. These pads will prevent your body from being raised by the resistance attached to the bar.
- Grab the bar with the palms facing forward using the prescribed grip. Note on grips: For a wide grip, your hands need to be spaced out at a distance wider than your shoulder width. For a medium grip, your hands need to be spaced out at a distance equal to your shoulder width and for a close grip at a distance smaller than your shoulder width.
- As you have both arms extended in front of you holding the bar at the chosen grip width, bring your torso and head forward. Think of an imaginary line from the center of the bar down to the back of your neck. This is your starting position.
- As you breathe out, bring the bar down until it touches the back of your neck by drawing the shoulders and the upper arms down and back. Tip: Concentrate on squeezing the back muscles once you reach the full contracted position. The upper torso should remain stationary and only the arms should move. The forearms should do no other work except for holding the bar; therefore do not try to pull down the bar using the forearms.
- After a second on the contracted position squeezing your shoulder blades together, slowly raise the bar back to the starting position when your arms are fully extended and the lats are fully stretched. Inhale during this portion of the movement.
- Repeat this motion for the prescribed amount of repetitions.
Exercise FAQ
How can I make this exercise harder without adding a lot of weight?
Slow down the lowering phase, add a brief pause in the hardest position, or increase total reps while keeping form crisp.
What should I focus on to keep good form?
Move with control and keep your torso stable. Use a range of motion you can own, and stop the set if you need momentum to finish reps. Think of it as pulling done with repeatable, clean reps.
What should I do if I feel it in the wrong place?
Check your setup, slow down, and reduce weight. If discomfort is sharp or in a joint, stop and choose an easier variation. Think of it as pulling done with repeatable, clean reps.
Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical or fitness advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise routine. Exercise safely and listen to your body.
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