High Row Machine vs Wide Pulldown Machine
Which one fits your Back workout plan?
Contents
Wide Pulldown Machine is the easier place to start — difficulty 1 of 5 vs 3. Compare Back form cues and when to progress.
Compare the benefits of High Row Machine and Wide Pulldown Machine and pick the one that fits your Back workout.
High Row Machine vs Wide Pulldown Machine: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Wide Pulldown Machine more often — 7,817 sessions compared to 4,545 for High Row Machine.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. High Row Machine and Wide Pulldown Machine differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How High Row Machine and Wide Pulldown Machine Differ
| What differs | High Row Machine | Wide Pulldown Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | 3 of 5 | 1 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 4,545 sessions | 7,817 sessions |
How to Do High Row Machine
High Row Machine Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. As you gather your shoulder blades, naturally pull your arms back.
- 2. Pull your elbows towards your sides.
- 3. While keeping your back straight, fully extend your elbows and return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Please be careful not to let your elbows flare out.
- 2. Please keep your chest open to avoid bending your waist.
For a full High Row Machine guide with alternatives and benefits, see the High Row Machine exercise guide.
How to Do Wide Pulldown Machine
Wide Pulldown Machine Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. Gather your shoulder blades and naturally pull your arms.
- 2. Lower until your elbows are positioned at your sides.
- 3. Slowly return to the starting position while keeping your chest open.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Please be careful not to let your trapezius muscles rise.
- 2. Please keep your chest open so that your lower back doesn't round.
For a full Wide Pulldown Machine guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Wide Pulldown Machine exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Back, High Row Machine or Wide Pulldown Machine?
Neither is clearly ahead — Planfit users log both at a similar rate. They both train Back, so the choice comes down to the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
What equipment do High Row Machine and Wide Pulldown Machine need?
High Row Machine needs a machine, and Wide Pulldown Machine needs a machine.
Which is easier to start with?
Wide Pulldown Machine is the easier place to start. Move to High Row Machine once your form holds up.
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