Lat Pulldown Machine vs T-Bar Row
Which one fits your Back workout plan?
Contents
T-Bar Row is the easier place to start — difficulty 4 of 5 vs 5. Compare Back form cues and when to progress.
Compare the benefits of Lat Pulldown Machine and T-Bar Row and pick the one that fits your Back workout.
Lat Pulldown Machine vs T-Bar Row: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log T-Bar Row more often — 3,618 sessions compared to 2,903 for Lat Pulldown Machine.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Lat Pulldown Machine and T-Bar Row differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Lat Pulldown Machine and T-Bar Row Differ
| What differs | Lat Pulldown Machine | T-Bar Row |
|---|---|---|
| Machine type | pin-loaded | plate-loaded |
| Difficulty | 5 of 5 | 4 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 2,903 sessions | 3,618 sessions |
How to Do Lat Pulldown Machine
Lat Pulldown Machine Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. Pull your arms back naturally while bringing your shoulder blades together.
- 2. Lower your forearms vertically.
- 3. Pull the grip up to the collarbone position.
- 4. Slowly raise your arms and return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Please be careful not to strain your shoulders by fully extending your shoulders and arms.
- 2. Please be careful not to let your trapezius muscles rise along with it.
For a full Lat Pulldown Machine guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Lat Pulldown Machine exercise guide.
How to Do T-Bar Row
T-Bar Row Muscles Worked: Back
Form
- 1. While gathering your shoulder blades, gently pull your arms.
- 2. Pull your elbows back until they reach behind your body.
- 3. Maintain an open chest position and slowly extend your arms to return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Open your chest and brace your abs to keep your torso stable, making sure your lower back does not round.
- 2. Using momentum can strain your lower back, so perform the movement slowly and in a controlled manner.
For a full T-Bar Row guide with alternatives and benefits, see the T-Bar Row exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Back, Lat Pulldown Machine or T-Bar Row?
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 Lat Pulldown Machine and T-Bar Row need?
Lat Pulldown Machine needs a machine, and T-Bar Row needs a machine.
Which is easier to start with?
T-Bar Row is the easier place to start. Move to Lat Pulldown Machine once your form holds up.
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