Cable Pullover: how to do it and muscles worked
The cable pullover mainly works your lats, with help from your triceps. You need a cable machine.
Muscles worked
How to do the cable pullover
- 1
Set a cable to a high position and stand or kneel facing it, holding the bar or rope with straight arms in front of you. Hinge slightly with a flat back and core tight.
- 2
Sweep the handle down in an arc to your thighs, keeping a soft elbow bend and squeezing your lats. Return slowly until your arms are overhead again.
- 3
Breathe out as you pull down and in as you return, about three seconds. Keep your torso still.
Form tip: Do not let your lower back arch and do not bend and straighten your elbows; this keeps the stress on your lats.
Common questions
- Which muscles does the cable pullover work?
- The cable pullover mainly works your lats. It also involves your triceps.
- What equipment do I need for the cable pullover?
- You need a cable machine.
- How many sets and reps should I do?
- A common starting point is 2 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 controlled reps, with a weight that leaves a couple of reps in reserve. Adjust it to your goal and experience, and stop if something hurts.
- How do I track the cable pullover in SweatByte?
- Add it to a routine or a workout. Log the weight and reps for each set. SweatByte shows your last session's numbers on every set, so you know what to beat.
More lats exercises
General information, not medical advice. Learn the movement with light weight first, and see a doctor or physiotherapist if you have an injury or pain. More guides in Learn.