Smart Workout Diary

Cable Lat Pulldown Close Grip

The close-grip cable lat pulldown is a vertical pulling exercise performed on a cable pulldown machine using a narrow handle. It primarily trains the latissimus dorsi, with the biceps and forearms assisting. It supports upper-body pulling strength and back muscle development.

Demonstration

Cable Lat Pulldown Close Grip — demonstration 1
Cable Lat Pulldown Close Grip — demonstration 2

Instructions

  1. Set up a cable pulldown machine with a close-grip handle and choose a load you can control.
  2. Sit with your thighs secured under the pads, feet flat, chest lifted, and spine neutral.
  3. Reach up and hold the handle with a narrow neutral grip; begin with the arms extended and shoulders not shrugged.
  4. Pull the handle down toward your upper chest by driving your elbows down and back.
  5. Return slowly until your arms are extended again, keeping your torso steady, then repeat.
Muscle Group
Lats
Other Muscle Groups
Biceps, Upper Back
Type
Strength
Mechanics
Compound
Equipment
Machine Strength
Difficulty
Beginner

Technique tips

  1. Keep the chest tall and avoid leaning far backward to turn the exercise into a row.
  2. Lead with the elbows instead of pulling mainly with the hands and biceps.
  3. Use a smooth range of motion and do not let the weight stack slam at the top.
Exercise library