Back Exercise · Cable

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Cable Underhand Pulldown

An underhand grip on a lat pulldown shifts more of the pulling work onto the biceps and lower lats compared to an overhand grip, similar to what a chin-up does relative to a pull-up. It's a good variation to rotate in specifically for lifters chasing more bicep involvement from their back day. Leaning back slightly and driving the elbows down is what keeps the lats engaged rather than turning it into a pure arm curl.

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Category

Back

Equipment

Cable

Target

Lats

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Exercise reference published by PlanWorkouts; see our editorial standards.

How to Do the Cable Underhand Pulldown

1. Set the cable machine so the pulldown bar sits above head height.
2. Sit on the seat and grip the pulldown bar with an underhand grip, hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
3. Keep your back straight and lean back slightly.
4. Pull the bar down toward your chest, squeezing your shoulder blades together.
5. Pause briefly at the bottom, then slowly let the bar rise back to the start.
6. Continue for the prescribed repetitions while maintaining full control through both the lift and lower phases.

Technique & Form Tips

Execute the movement by bending the elbows to pull the body toward the bar or the attachment toward the torso. Movement depends on the specific setup, emphasizing the vertical plane of the pull.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Excessive leaning: Adjust your posture to focus on the intended vertical path of the pull.
• Jerking into the pull: Start the pull smoothly rather than using a sudden yank or swing.
• Using the wrong attachment path: Check the demonstrated grip and path before starting. Front and rear variations have different setups; do not force an uncomfortable position.

How to Breathe During This Exercise

Inhale and exhale consistently as you perform the pull.

Comfort and Control

Choose a load and range you can control. Stop if the movement causes pain. If discomfort persists, stop and ask a qualified professional about an appropriate exercise and range.

General guidance: Mayo Clinic on weight-training technique. Follow the specific movement steps above for this variation.

Muscles Worked

The Cable Underhand Pulldown mainly targets your Lats, with your Biceps helping support the movement, along with your Forearms.

More Back Exercises

Alternate Lateral Pulldown Cable · Lats Archer Pull Up Body Weight · Lats Assisted Parallel Close Grip Pull-Up Leverage Machine · Lats Assisted Pull-Up Leverage Machine · Lats Assisted Standing Chin-Up Leverage Machine · Lats Assisted Standing Pull-Up Leverage Machine · Lats

More Lats Exercises

Back Pec Stretch Body Weight · Lats Band Assisted Pull-Up Band · Lats Band Close-Grip Pulldown Band · Lats Band Fixed Back Close Grip Pulldown Band · Lats Band Fixed Back Underhand Pulldown Band · Lats Band Kneeling One Arm Pulldown Band · Lats

Equipment Alternatives

Don't have cable? These target the same lats with different equipment.

Bench Pull-Ups Body Weight · Lats Band Assisted Pull-Up Band · Lats Lever Assisted Chin-Up Leverage Machine · Lats Weighted Pull-Up Weighted · Lats

FAQ

What muscles does the Cable Underhand Pulldown work?

The Cable Underhand Pulldown mainly works your lats. It also helps strengthen your biceps and forearms. Using good, smooth form makes sure you work the right muscles and avoid unnecessary strain on your joints.

What equipment do I need for the Cable Underhand Pulldown?

You do the Cable Underhand Pulldown with a cable. Make sure your equipment is set up safely before starting. If you work out at home or have limited gear, check out our alternative exercises below.

What form mistake should I watch for on the Cable Underhand Pulldown?

One mistake to watch for is excessive leaning: Adjust your posture to focus on the intended vertical path of the pull.. Use a comfortable range and a controlled return; reduce the load if you cannot maintain the demonstrated setup.

How many sets and reps should I perform on the Cable Underhand Pulldown?

To build muscle size, aim for 3 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 reps with 90 to 120 seconds of rest. To build pure strength, focus on 4 to 5 sets of 3 to 6 heavier reps with 2 to 3 minutes of rest.

What's a good alternative to the Cable Underhand Pulldown?

The Bench Pull-Ups trains your lats with body weight and a similar movement pattern. Review its form guide before substituting it, since setup and range of motion can differ.