Barbell Pullover vs Pullover Machine (Chest Target)
Which one fits your Chest workout plan?
Contents
Barbell Pullover and Pullover Machine (Chest Target) are close in use — 147 vs 141 sessions logged. What separates them is Chest loading and form.
Compare the benefits of Barbell Pullover and Pullover Machine (Chest Target) and pick the one that fits your Chest workout.
Barbell Pullover vs Pullover Machine (Chest Target): Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Barbell Pullover more often — 147 sessions compared to 141 for Pullover Machine (Chest Target).
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Barbell Pullover and Pullover Machine (Chest Target) differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Barbell Pullover and Pullover Machine (Chest Target) Differ
| What differs | Barbell Pullover | Pullover Machine (Chest Target) |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | a barbell | a machine |
| Difficulty | 5 of 5 | 5 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 147 sessions | 141 sessions |
How to Do Barbell Pullover
Barbell Pullover Muscles Worked: Chest
Form
- 1. Slowly lower the barbell over your head.
- 2. At this time, your chest and back should be sufficiently stretched.
- 3. Slowly lift the barbell to return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- If you can't lower the barbell all the way to the top of your head, please lower it as much as you can without overexerting yourself.
For a full Barbell Pullover guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Barbell Pullover exercise guide.
How to Do Pullover Machine (Chest Target)
Pullover Machine (Chest Target) Muscles Worked: Chest
Form
- 1. Keep your elbow angle and lower the handle in a large circle in front of your body.
- 2. When the handle gets close to your chest, feel the contraction in your chest and pause for a moment.
- 3. Slowly raise your arms back up towards your head to return to the starting position.
- 4. Throughout the movement, focus on the stimulation in your chest and sides instead of your shoulders.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Avoid using excessive weights as it puts a lot of strain on your shoulders.
- 2. Do not excessively arch your back and engage your core.
- 3. If you feel discomfort in your shoulder joints, reduce the range of motion or lower the weight.
For a full Pullover Machine (Chest Target) guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Pullover Machine (Chest Target) exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Chest, Barbell Pullover or Pullover Machine (Chest Target)?
Neither is clearly ahead — Planfit users log both at a similar rate. They both train Chest, so the choice comes down to the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
What equipment do Barbell Pullover and Pullover Machine (Chest Target) need?
Barbell Pullover needs a barbell, and Pullover Machine (Chest Target) needs a machine.
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