Lat Pull Downs are an excellent exercise for building up the size of your back. They can be used in conjunction with a rowing movement to really push the back to grow faster. While some people recommend using these to improve their chin ups, I would disagree at their effectiveness in that task.
The lat pull downs are what cause that classic V-shape in your back. However, most people execute the movement incorrectly. There are many things people do wrong when using this exercise. Some examples of issues:
- The use of momentum
- Going far too heavy
- Not squeezing at the bottom of the movement
The idea is to do the movement under complete control. Have good control on the way down and the way back up. Be sure to get a full stretch at the top of the movement. This will help stimulate your lats even more. Hold the movement for a second at the bottom. Just squeeze your shoulder blades together tightly.
For those of you interested in some instructions, please check out the slideshow below.
I hope you've enjoyed this description of a lat pull down and how to properly execute that movement.
