{"id":11280,"date":"2023-03-02T18:52:41","date_gmt":"2023-03-02T19:52:41","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/?p=11280"},"modified":"2023-03-02T20:56:24","modified_gmt":"2023-03-02T20:56:24","slug":"how-to-do-the-single-arm-lat-pulldown-for-back-and-biceps-gains","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/everything-else\/how-to-do-the-single-arm-lat-pulldown-for-back-and-biceps-gains\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Do the Single-Arm Lat Pulldown for Back and Biceps Gains"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The lat pulldown can be a reliable and effective alternative to back-training staples like chin-ups or pull-ups. Pulldowns can be useful for <a data-lasso-id=\"211802\" href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/pull-ups-for-beginners\/\">novice lifters<\/a> who may not yet be strong enough to perform high-quality repetitions, as well as more experienced lifters looking to minimize the role of their core or lower body while zeroing in on back musculature.<\/p>\n<p>The <a data-lasso-id=\"211803\" href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/lat-pulldown-alternatives\/\" class=\"ek-link\">pulldown<\/a> can be taken to another level, however, once you recognize that the exercise doesn&#8217;t need to be performed with both hands fixed to one straight bar. This familiar setup can make for a smooth and stable pull, but it also disguises just how much work one side of your body is doing compared to the other side.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"760\" height=\"427\" src=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_1655209030.jpg\" alt=\"Muscular man performing lat pulldown in gym\" class=\"wp-image-161158\" srcset=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_1655209030.jpg 760w, https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/shutterstock_1655209030-120x68.jpg 120w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Credit: martvisionlk \/ Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>For this reason, opting for a unilateral (single-sided) movement can provide unique benefits and increased back focus. When the name of the game is <a data-lasso-id=\"211804\" href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/how-to-build-muscle\" class=\"ek-link\">muscular development<\/a> and <a data-lasso-id=\"211805\" href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/best-upper-body-pulling-exercises\/\" class=\"ek-link\">pulling strength<\/a>, these details are huge. Here\u2019s how to get your back on track with the single-arm lat pulldown.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"single-arm-lat-pulldown\">Single-Arm Lat Pulldown<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#1\" class=\"ek-link\">How to Do the Single-Arm Lat Pulldown<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#2\" class=\"ek-link\">Single-Arm Lat Pulldown Mistakes to Avoid<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#3\" class=\"ek-link\">How to Progress the Single-Arm Lat Pulldown<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#4\" class=\"ek-link\">Benefits of the Single-Arm Lat Pulldown<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#5\" class=\"ek-link\">Muscles Worked by the Single-Arm Lat Pulldown<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#6\" class=\"ek-link\">How to Program the Single-Arm Lat Pulldown<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#7\" class=\"ek-link\">Single-Arm Lat Pulldown Variations<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"#8\" class=\"ek-link\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"ideal-single-arm-lat-pulldown-technique-demo\">Ideal Single-Arm Lat Pulldown Technique Demo<\/h2>\n<p>Coach Lee Boyce provides a clear demonstration of the single-arm lat pulldown in action. See the movement performed with each arm and then read on to learn the details.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-instagram wp-block-embed-instagram\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"sbi-embed-wrap\">\n<blockquote class=\"instagram-media sbi-embed\" data-instgrm-permalink=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/reel\/Co0JD2Rj3Z1\/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading\" data-instgrm-version=\"14\" style=\" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:500px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);\">\n<div style=\"padding:16px;\"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/reel\/Co0JD2Rj3Z1\/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading\" style=\" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <\/p>\n<div style=\" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;\">\n<div style=\"background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;\">\n<div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"padding: 19% 0;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;\"><svg width=\"50px\" height=\"50px\" viewbox=\"0 0 60 60\" version=\"1.1\" xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" xmlns:xlink=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/1999\/xlink\"><g stroke=\"none\" stroke-width=\"1\" fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><g transform=\"translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)\" fill=\"#000000\"><g><path d=\"M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631\"><\/path><\/g><\/g><\/g><\/svg><\/div>\n<div style=\"padding-top: 8px;\">\n<div style=\" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;\">View this post on Instagram<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"padding: 12.5% 0;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;\">\n<div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-left: 8px;\">\n<div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"margin-left: auto;\">\n<div style=\" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);\"><\/div>\n<div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);\"><\/div>\n<div style=\" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;\">\n<div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;\"><\/div>\n<div style=\" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/reel\/Co0JD2Rj3Z1\/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading\" style=\" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">A post shared by Lee Boyce (@coachleeboyce)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p><script async src=\"\/\/platform.instagram.com\/en_US\/embeds.js\"><\/script><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"sc-namejump-anchor1how-to-do-the-single-arm-lat-pulldown\"><a id=\"1\" class=\"linkj\"><\/a>How to Do the Single-Arm Lat Pulldown<\/h2>\n<p>The single-arm lat pulldown may feel slightly awkward at first, especially if you\u2019re not used to performing <a data-lasso-id=\"211806\" href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/best-back-exercises\/\" class=\"ek-link\">back exercises<\/a> with one arm at a time. But any time spent learning the movement will pay off with new size and strength.\u00a0<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"step-1-know-your-equipment\">Step 1 \u2014 Know Your Equipment<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"760\" height=\"427\" src=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Shutterstock_1473508607.jpg\" alt=\"Single handle attached to cable pulley in gym\" class=\"wp-image-183110\" srcset=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Shutterstock_1473508607.jpg 760w, https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Shutterstock_1473508607-120x68.jpg 120w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Credit: martvisionlk \/ Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>You may be stuck with whatever equipment your gym offers, but some pulldown setups are more user-friendly than others. The gold standard is a dual pulley system. This makes it easy to attach individual handles to each pulley, which will be more naturally aligned with each of your shoulders.<\/p>\n<p>The second best option would be a singular pulley attachment that operates on a pivot. That way, even though the pulley is positioned in the center above your head, it still turns in the direction of your working arm during the movement.<\/p>\n<p>Least optimal would be a single pulley attachment that is completely fixed to the machine with no room to turn or pivot. Many older pieces of equipment are constructed this way, but if it\u2019s the only \u201cpulldown\u201d station available, consider setting up either on the floor at a manually adjustable cable setup (like one for <a href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/triceps-pushdown\" data-lasso-id=\"211807\">triceps pressdowns<\/a>) or on the ground beside the seat at the pulldown station.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Form Tip<\/strong>: The key point is to position the pulley as close in-line with your working-side shoulder as possible. This will allow the most comfortable, most efficient line of pull during the exercise.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"step-2-sit-tight-grab-hold-and-stretch\">Step 2 \u2014 Sit Tight, Grab Hold, and Stretch<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"760\" height=\"427\" src=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/single-arm-lat-pulldown-overhead-stretch.jpg\" alt=\"Coach Lee Boyce in gym performing back exercise.\" class=\"wp-image-183109\" srcset=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/single-arm-lat-pulldown-overhead-stretch.jpg 760w, https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/single-arm-lat-pulldown-overhead-stretch-120x68.jpg 120w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Credit: @coachleeboyce \/ Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Secure your thighs under the pad and reach up to get a hold of the handle. Because you\u2019re only reaching one arm, it should be easier to stretch higher while reaching above your head.<\/p>\n<p>Your body will naturally reach higher with one arm compared to raising both arms overhead. If you have doubts, you can quickly test it yourself \u2014 Stand facing a wall and raise both hands above your head to touch the highest point you can reach. Then drop one hand and repeat. You\u2019ll undoubtedly get higher with the single arm by comparison.<\/p>\n<p>In the overhead stretched position, your palm should face toward the machine.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Form Tip<\/strong>: This deep stretch will allow you to contract and stretch through a longer range of motion, which will enhance the training effect on the target muscles. (<a href=\"https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/full\/10.1111\/sms.14006\" data-lasso-id=\"211808\">1<\/a>)<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"step-3-set-your-shoulder-and-pull\">Step 3 \u2014 Set Your Shoulder and Pull<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"760\" height=\"427\" src=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/single-arm-lat-pulldown-peak-contraction.jpg\" alt=\"Coach Lee Boyce in gym doing back exercise\" class=\"wp-image-183108\" srcset=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/single-arm-lat-pulldown-peak-contraction.jpg 760w, https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/single-arm-lat-pulldown-peak-contraction-120x68.jpg 120w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Credit: @coachleeboyce \/ Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Rest your non-working hand comfortably on the leg pad or on your torso. \u201cReverse\u201d the stretched position by actively setting your working shoulder \u2014 lower it by pulling your shoulder blade down and \u201cin\u201d to your mid-back. Push your chest up high and make your neck \u201clong.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Pull through your elbow, don\u2019t think about curling with your arm. Squeeze your upper back and lats tight. Think about tucking your elbow into your back pocket. Don\u2019t let your upper body crunch sideways as you pull down.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Form Tip<\/strong>: Take advantage of the single handle, which allows you to play with your hand and wrist position. You can <a data-lasso-id=\"211809\" href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/hammer-curls-vs-biceps-curls\/\" class=\"ek-link\">supinate<\/a> (turn your palm to face you) as you lift the weight or or can rotate to a <a data-lasso-id=\"211810\" href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/hammer-curl\/\" class=\"ek-link\">thumbs-up position<\/a>. Find a wrist angle that works efficiently, comfortably, and powerfully for you.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"step-4-return-to-the-overhead-stretch\">Step 4 \u2014 Return to the Overhead Stretch<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"760\" height=\"427\" src=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/single-arm-lat-pulldown-overhead-stretch.jpg\" alt=\"Coach Lee Boyce in gym performing back exercise.\" class=\"wp-image-183109\" srcset=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/single-arm-lat-pulldown-overhead-stretch.jpg 760w, https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/single-arm-lat-pulldown-overhead-stretch-120x68.jpg 120w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Credit: @coachleeboyce \/ Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>When your hand reaches shoulder-level, feel a strong contraction through your side. Return to the starting position by reversing the motion. Lower the weight slowly and control the movement as you reach overhead to full extension.<\/p>\n<p>Don\u2019t overstretch by leaning toward the non-working side. Keep your torso stable and vertical throughout the exercise. When your arm is straight, shrug your shoulder blade up for maximum activation.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Form Tip<\/strong>: Let your overall mobility and flexibility guide your movements. Ideally, aim to bring your hand down near shoulder-level. Don\u2019t force any excessive range of motion and don\u2019t turn it into an ab exercise by crunching to the side \u2014 that won\u2019t help to recruit your back.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"sc-namejump-anchor2single-arm-lat-pulldown-mistakes-to-avoid\"><a id=\"2\" class=\"linkj\"><\/a>Single-Arm Lat Pulldown Mistakes to Avoid<\/h2>\n<p>The single-arm lat pulldown can invite some simple technique or programming errors that will reduce the muscle and strength gains. Here are the biggest points to watch out for.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"going-too-heavy\">Going Too Heavy&nbsp;<\/h3>\n<p>The most common mistake should almost go without saying, though it doesn\u2019t only apply to the single-arm lat pulldown \u2014 check your ego at the door. This is a much more precise, unilateral version of the pulldown, which itself is notorious for overly heavy loading that requires more body swing than lat activation.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"760\" height=\"427\" src=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/single-arm-lat-pulldown-side-crunch.jpg\" alt=\"Person in gym doing one-arm back exercise with cable\" class=\"wp-image-183111\" srcset=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/single-arm-lat-pulldown-side-crunch.jpg 760w, https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/single-arm-lat-pulldown-side-crunch-120x68.jpg 120w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Credit: Exercises.com.au \/ YouTube<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>There\u2019s no place for that with the single-arm lat pulldown, nor is there any real use for it. You\u2019ll be subject to excessive swinging or twisting to get the weight down, and you\u2019ll ultimately be using everything <em>except<\/em> your lats to get the job done.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Avoid it<\/strong>: Keep loading relatively lighter to reduce the temptation to swing the weight. Focus on using perfect form throughout each section of the movement and try to feel your back muscles contracting and stretching.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"slouching-in-the-finished-position\">Slouching in the Finished Position<\/h3>\n<p>Like any back exercise, the goal should always be to maintain a \u201cproud chest,\u201d especially through the contracted phase of the lift, to ensure good posture and proper muscle activation.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"760\" height=\"427\" src=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/single-arm-lat-pulldown-posture.jpg\" alt=\"long-haired person in gym doing single-arm back exercise with cable\" class=\"wp-image-183112\" srcset=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/single-arm-lat-pulldown-posture.jpg 760w, https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/single-arm-lat-pulldown-posture-120x68.jpg 120w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Credit: Connor Nichole \/ YouTube<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>It\u2019s easy to \u201cclose yourself up\u201d as you complete the pull, by adding something of an abdominal crunch to the pattern. This is not ideal because it reduces stress on the target muscle and puts you in an inefficient position.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Avoid it<\/strong>: Focus on starting tall and finishing just as tall, or even taller. This posture cue will make you aware of your overall body position.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"sc-namejump-anchor3how-to-progress-the-single-arm-lat-pulldown\"><a id=\"3\" class=\"linkj\"><\/a>How to Progress the Single-Arm Lat Pulldown<\/h2>\n<p>As a relatively straightforward, cable-based exercise, you can approach this exercise with confidence no matter your experience level.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"adjust-load\">Adjust Load<\/h3>\n<p>Like many movements, you can adapt the challenge by simply changing the loading. Most cable stacks go as light as 10 to 20 pounds. Even while keeping your target rep range the same, you can accommodate nearly any strength level by reducing the weight to perform repetitions with crisp technique.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube\"><a href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/single-arm-lat-pulldown\/\"><img src=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/lyteCache.php\" alt=\"YouTube Video\" \/><\/a><figcaption><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Similarly, you can go as heavy as possible while maintaining form. As previously discussed, swapping form for more weight is anything but productive. Fortunately, when using good technique and a moderate rep range, even the most experienced lifters will find the full weight stack to be more than enough.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"sc-namejump-anchor4benefits-of-the-single-arm-lat-pulldown\"><a id=\"4\" class=\"linkj\"><\/a>Benefits of the Single-Arm Lat Pulldown&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p>This unilateral movement offers the benefits of single-side training combined with the benefits of a cable pulley.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"scapular-mobility\">Scapular Mobility<\/h3>\n<p>Scapular mobility is the overlooked key to every successful back exercise, including the single-arm lat pulldown. Lifters sometimes mistakenly think that stability is the only function of the scapulae (shoulder blades). As such, they believe the scapulae shouldn\u2019t be allowed to move during exercise.<\/p>\n<p>This may be true in movements like the <a data-lasso-id=\"211811\" href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/bench-press\">barbell bench press<\/a>, but it\u2019s not something that actually promotes shoulder joint health. For every joint in your body, there\u2019s actually a certain degree of stability <em>and <\/em>mobility needed to maintain proper joint function. Depending on the joint in question, there will be a greater need for one over the other.<\/p>\n<p>For example, hinge joints like the knees and elbows require more stability than mobility due to the limited nature of their responsibilities and available joint angles. There is still a degree of mobility they need to create proper range of motion, and to allow for a little bit of \u201cgive\u201d laterally and medially.<\/p>\n<p>In the case of the scapulae, stability is paramount, but it\u2019s essential that they possess the capacity to move around the ribcage in elevation\/depression (up and down), and in protraction\/retraction (forward and back together).<\/p>\n<p>This brings us to where most lifters drop the ball when performing pulling movements. Simply put, the shoulder blades must direct the action of any pull pattern \u2013 <a data-lasso-id=\"211812\" href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/chin-up\">chin-ups<\/a>, <a data-lasso-id=\"211813\" href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/bent-over-barbell-row\/\">rows<\/a>, and yes, <a data-lasso-id=\"211814\" href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/lat-pulldown\/\" class=\"ek-link\">pulldowns<\/a> too. Initiating the movement by simply pulling with your hands won\u2019t do much to engage the <a data-lasso-id=\"211815\" href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/pendlay-row\">upper back muscles<\/a> and lats.<\/p>\n<p>To practice the proper mechanics, it\u2019s useful to break the movement down into pieces, learning how to engage your lower traps, rhomboids, and <a href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/dumbbell-lat-exercises\/\" data-lasso-id=\"211816\">lats<\/a>. You can do this by keeping your elbow straight while pulling through only the first portion of the lift.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube\"><a href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/single-arm-lat-pulldown\/\"><img src=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/lyteCache-1.php\" alt=\"YouTube Video\" \/><\/a><figcaption><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Applying this concept to the single-arm lat pulldown will support your quest for muscle, keep the focus in the right places, and keep your scapulae strong and healthy.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"muscle-size\">Muscle Size<\/h3>\n<p>The single-arm lat pulldown is a prime choice for hypertrophy due to its greater isolation on each individual side of the muscle \u2014 making each side of your back perform work on its own. The added stretch and long range of motion for each rep also supports muscle growth and strength.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"reduced-joint-strain\">Reduced Joint Strain<\/h3>\n<p>Using a single handle allows you to customize your hand and wrist\u2019s start and finish position. This ability to rotate can be useful for lifters who struggle with a history of shoulder, elbow, or wrist issues. These seemingly small changes accumulate into a movement that takes on an entirely new identity as a hidden weapon for <a href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/best-back-workout\" data-lasso-id=\"211817\">back day<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"sc-namejump-anchor5muscles-trained-by-the-single-arm-lat-pulldown\"><a id=\"5\" class=\"linkj\"><\/a>Muscles Trained by the Single-Arm Lat Pulldown<\/h2>\n<p>All pulldowns are considered \u201cback exercises,\u201d but the single-arm lat pulldown provides a unique spin on the generally familiar exercise. This results in a new approach to muscle reccruitment.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"lats\">Lats<\/h3>\n<p>When done correctly, the single-arm lat pulldown primarily focuses on the lats. One key function of the latissimus (lats) is bringing your arm from an overhead position toward the body\u2019s centerline.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"760\" height=\"427\" src=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/shutterstock_1583775631.jpg\" alt=\"Muscular man flexing back, shoulders, and arms.\" class=\"wp-image-162115\" srcset=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/shutterstock_1583775631.jpg 760w, https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/shutterstock_1583775631-120x68.jpg 120w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Credit: RomarioIen \/ Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Because a lat muscle rests on each side of your back, the single-arm lat pulldown allows you to focus on one specific muscle during each set, which can address any developmental imbalances that may be present.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"upper-back\">Upper Back<\/h3>\n<p>Your upper back, as a whole, contributes to the single-arm lat pulldown. Collectively, your lower trapezius and rhomboids work as direct synergists to support the prime mover (lats) during the exercise. Your upper back provides stability and support, while also controlling your scapulae during the overhead stretch and peak contraction.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"biceps\">Biceps<\/h3>\n<p>Your biceps are recruited in many back exercises as your arm extends and contracts. Particularly, your biceps are more significantly recruited as you rotate your hand into a supinated (palm facing you) position. (<a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/21068680\/\" data-lasso-id=\"211818\">2<\/a>)<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"obliques\">Obliques<\/h3>\n<p>Because the single-arm lat pulldown is a unilateral exercise, there is an added contribution from your obliques on the sides of your abdominals. These muscles resist excessive lateral flexion (sideways bending) of the spine when performing the lift through a full range of motion. As you focus on keeping a stable torso during the exercise, your obliques are activated to maintain your posture.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"sc-namejump-anchor6how-to-program-the-single-arm-lat-pulldown\"><a id=\"6\" class=\"linkj\"><\/a>How to Program the Single-Arm Lat Pulldown<\/h2>\n<p>Because the single-arm lat pulldown is a relatively focused exercise, being performed with one arm at a time, it\u2019s not well-suited to very heavy loading. However, because of the multi-joint nature and high degree of muscular involvement, extremely high repetition training may fatigue support muscles before the primary target muscles.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"moderate-weight-moderate-repetition\">Moderate Weight, Moderate Repetition<\/h3>\n<p>Approach the single-arm lat pulldown with a classic set and rep scheme for reliable size and strength gains. <strong>Three to four sets of 10 to 12 reps<\/strong> will let you target your back with an ideal amount of time under tension without needing to load super-heavy, and potentially form-destroying, weights.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"sc-namejump-anchor7single-arm-lat-pulldown-variations\"><a id=\"7\" class=\"linkj\"><\/a>Single-Arm Lat Pulldown Variations<\/h2>\n<p>This exercise is already, technically, an alternative to a traditional, straight bar lat pulldown, so the list of modifications for more effectiveness or user-friendliness is relatively short. Of note, one exercise stands out as a great alternative. For it, all you need is an adjustable bench and cable pulley.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"cobra-pulldown\">Cobra Pulldown&nbsp;<\/h3>\n<p>Set an adjustable bench to a roughly 45-degree incline and place is alongside a high cable pulley. Grab a single handle attachment and lay your side on the bench. This unique setup puts you in position to pull diagonally, and allows you to hit the lats directly with super-strict form.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube\"><a href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/single-arm-lat-pulldown\/\"><img src=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/lyteCache-2.php\" alt=\"YouTube Video\" \/><\/a><figcaption><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The position essentially immobilizes your upper body and removes the involvement of any cheating muscles like the lower back or abs. The goal is to avoid lifting heavy and focus on muscle recruitment.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"half-kneeling-single-arm-lat-pulldown\">Half-Kneeling Single-Arm Lat Pulldown<\/h3>\n<p>This is a common and effective pulldown variation that allows you to position your body more directly in-line with the cable pulley. An added benefit of the half-kneeling position is a passive stretch of the hip flexor on your kneeling side and increased glute activation to stabilize your hips and pelvis during the exercise.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube\"><a href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/single-arm-lat-pulldown\/\"><img src=\"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/lyteCache-3.php\" alt=\"YouTube Video\" \/><\/a><figcaption><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>However, the half-kneeling single-arm lat pulldown can also change the pulling angle by adding a diagonal, slightly more horizontal, line of pull rather than an overhead (vertical) pulldown motion. This can increase recruitment of your upper back muscles and may reduce the work done by your lats.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"sc-namejump-anchor8frequently-asked-questions\"><a id=\"8\" class=\"linkj\"><\/a>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\">\n<div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1677775770007\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I do single-arm lat pulldowns and another pulldown variation in the same workout?<\/strong> <\/p>\n<p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">You can, as long as they&#8217;re programmed differently. The single-arm lat pulldown can either be used as the first exercise, as a &#8220;primer&#8221; to activate your back muscles, or as the last exercise to thoroughly work your fatigued lats and upper back by isolating each side.<br \/>If you use a different set\/rep scheme for each movement \u2014 for example, starting with four sets of eight straight-bar lat pulldowns and ending the session by doing the single-arm lat pulldown for three sets of 12 reps \u2014 you can avoid redundancy in your workouts.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<h2 id=\"bigger-lats-one-side-at-a-time\">Bigger Lats, One Side at a Time<\/h2>\n<p>The single-arm lat pulldown is the intermediate back-training movement you didn\u2019t know you needed. Make sure you have the classic pulldown movement down pat, along with a good handle on basic mechanics of your shoulders and shoulder blades. Then it\u2019s off to the races as you use the exercise for higher volume and great isolation. Time to get some single-sided gains while building a powerful and more muscular back.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"references\">References<\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li>Pallar\u00e9s, JG, Hern\u00e1ndez-Belmonte, A, Mart\u00ednez-Cava, A, Vetrovsky, T, Steffl, M, Courel-Ib\u00e1\u00f1ez, J. Effects of range of motion on resistance training adaptations: A systematic review and meta-analysis. <em>Scand J Med Sci Sports<\/em>. 2021; 31: 1866\u2013 1881. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/sms.14006<\/li>\n<li>Youdas, J. W., Amundson, C. L., Cicero, K. S., Hahn, J. J., Harezlak, D. T., &amp; Hollman, J. H. (2010). Surface electromyographic activation patterns and elbow joint motion during a pull-up, chin-up, or perfect-pullup<img src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/14.0.0\/72x72\/2122.png\" alt=\"\u2122\" class=\"wp-smiley\" style=\"height: 1em; max-height: 1em;\" \/> rotational exercise. <em>Journal of strength and conditioning research<\/em>, <em>24<\/em>(12), 3404\u20133414. https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1519\/JSC.0b013e3181f1598c<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><em>Featured Image: @coachleeboyce \/ Instagram<\/em><\/p>\n<p>The post <a rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\/single-arm-lat-pulldown\/\">How to Do the Single-Arm Lat Pulldown for Back and Biceps Gains<\/a> appeared first on <a rel=\"nofollow\" href=\"https:\/\/breakingmuscle.com\">Breaking Muscle<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The lat pulldown can be a reliable and effective alternative to back-training staples like chin-ups or pull-ups. Pulldowns can be useful for novice lifters who may not yet be strong enough to perform high-quality repetitions, as well as more experienced lifters looking to minimize the role of their core or lower body while zeroing in on back musculature&#8230;.<br \/>\nThe post How to Do the Single-Arm Lat Pulldown for Back and Biceps Gains appeared first on Breaking Muscle.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3609,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"wprm-recipe-roundup-name":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-description":""},"categories":[20,1,21,22,19],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11280"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11280"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11280\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11292,"href":"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11280\/revisions\/11292"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3609"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11280"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11280"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11280"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}