Difference between wide-grip lat pull-downs and wide-grip pull-ups?

Asked by: Jennifer Daniel

The main difference between the wide grip and close grip lat pulldown is the muscles used. The close grip pulldown will target the trapezius and rhomboids more, whereas the wide-grip pulldown will target the lats more.

Are pull-ups and lat pulldowns the same?

They’re specifically targeting the lats and the muscles of the scapula. The movements for these exercises are relatively similar through the upper body, though are definitely significant differences in the rest of the body. The lat pulldown is definitely designed to replicate the pull-up.

Which is better pull-ups or lat pulldowns?

Which Exercise is Better? In general, pull-ups tend to be best for improving strength relative to pull-downs. Whether you are a full-blown bodybuilder or a complete beginner, lat pull-downs work great whereas pull-up exercises help you improve your overall strength.

What’s the difference between wide grip and close grip lat pulldowns?

With a wide grip lat pulldown, your upper arms pull out and back. At the bottom of the movement, your arms stick out to the sides when viewed from behind. But they’re almost in line with your body from the side. On the other hand, a close grip lat pulldown pulls your arms in and forward.

Why are lat pulldowns harder than pullups?

It is similar to the pull up, except with pull ups you are actually held (relatively) stable by the bar you are gripping. In the lat pulldown, the bar is in motion, so it is more difficult to control. This is why some people find lat pulldowns to be more difficult even than pull ups.

Are wide pullups better for lats?

Wide grip pull-ups are an effective bodyweight exercise for building upper-body strength. Wide grip pull-ups are essentially a regular pull-up with a wider hand position. The main benefit of a wider grip is increased activation of the latissimus dorsi or lats for short.

How effective are lat pulldowns?

The lat pulldown is a fantastic exercise to strengthen the latissimus dorsi muscle, the broadest muscle in your back, which promotes good postures and spinal stability. Form is crucial when performing a lat pulldown to prevent injury and reap the best results.

How do you get stronger on lat pulldowns?

Again it's counterintuitive to why you would normally think but try it the next time you're at the gym try using a narrow hand spacing. And then try using a wide head spacing.