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Face Pull

Difficulty: Beginnerpull

Home Setup

Anchor resistance band at face height to a sturdy door or post

Resistance bandDoor anchorSturdy pole or railing

💡 Pro tip: Use a towel through door hinge as makeshift anchor point

Gym Setup

Cable machine set at upper chest/face height with rope attachment

Safety: Start with light weight to master form; ensure cable is secure

💪 Muscles Worked

Rear DeltoidsRhomboidsMiddle TrapeziusRotator CuffInfraspinatus

⭐ Why This Exercise?

Face pulls are essential for shoulder health and posture correction, directly targeting the often-neglected rear deltoids and upper back muscles. This exercise helps counterbalance pressing movements, improves shoulder stability, and reduces risk of shoulder impingement while building well-rounded shoulder development.

Make It Easier

Regressions for building up strength

1. Band Pull-Apart

resistance band

Simpler movement pattern without rotation

2. Seated Face Pull

cable machine + rope attachment

Sitting provides stability for beginners

3. Light Band Face Pull

light resistance band

Less resistance to learn proper form

Make It Harder

Progressions for advanced athletes

1. Single-Arm Face Pull

cable machine + handle

Unilateral work increases stability demand

2. Face Pull with Pause

cable machine + rope attachment

Isometric hold increases time under tension

3. Face Pull to External Rotation

cable machine + rope attachment

Added rotator cuff emphasis

↕️ Similar Movements

Rear Delt Fly
Isolates same posterior shoulder muscles
Bent-Over Row
Similar horizontal pull pattern
Band Pull-Apart
Simplified version of same movement
External Rotation
Targets rotator cuff muscles
Reverse Pec Deck
Machine-based rear delt work

Form Checklist

Pull rope towards face/forehead
Elbows high and wide
Squeeze shoulder blades together
Rotate hands outward at end
Keep chest up and core tight

Common Mistakes

  • Pulling too low towards chest
  • Elbows dropping below shoulders
  • Using momentum instead of control
  • Leaning back excessively
  • Not externally rotating at finish

📈 When to Progress

When you can do 15-20 reps with perfect form and controlled tempo for 3 sets