Skip to main content

Lever Cross Lat Pulldown

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Lever Cross Lat Pulldown.

MediumMiddle back

About this exercise

A lat pulldown variation performed on a lever machine where the handles are pulled down in a crossed or wide-grip pattern, maximizing lat stretch and contraction. This machine-based movement isolates the latissimus dorsi with stable, guided resistance.

How to Perform

  • Sit at the lat pulldown machine and adjust the thigh pad to secure your legs
  • Grip the handles with a wide or cross grip, arms extended overhead
  • Lean back slightly and retract your shoulder blades
  • Pull the handles down toward your upper chest by driving your elbows down and back
  • Squeeze your lats at the bottom of the movement
  • Slowly extend your arms back to the starting position under control
  • Repeat for the desired number of repetitions

Muscle Activation

Primary
Middle back
Secondary
BicepsTrapezius

About the Lever Cross Lat Pulldown

The Lever Cross Lat Pulldown 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.