Cable Seated Face Pull (with Rope) - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Cable Seated Face Pull (with Rope)

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Cable Seated Face Pull (with Rope).

MediumRear shoulders

About this exercise

A seated cable face pull performed with a rope attachment, targeting the rear deltoids and upper traps while keeping the lower body stable. The seated position reduces lower-body involvement and helps isolate the shoulder-rear musculature.

How to Perform

  • Set the cable pulley to approximately face height and attach the rope handle
  • Sit on a bench or box directly in front of the cable machine with your back straight
  • Grasp both ends of the rope with a neutral grip, arms fully extended toward the pulley
  • Retract your shoulder blades slightly and pull the rope toward your face, separating your hands and driving your elbows out and back
  • Aim to bring your thumbs toward your ears so your upper arms finish roughly parallel to the floor
  • Pause for a moment at peak contraction, squeezing your rear delts and upper traps
  • Slowly extend your arms back to the starting position under control

Muscle Activation

Primary
Rear shoulders
Secondary
Side shouldersTrapezius

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Cable Seated Face Pull (with Rope)

The Cable Seated Face Pull (with Rope) is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.