Face pull (exercise)

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The face pull is a weight training exercise that primarily targets the musculature of the upper back and shoulders, namely the posterior deltoids, trapezius, rhomboids, Latissimus dorsi as well as the biceps. [1] The face pull is considered an important exercise for shoulder health and stability. [2]

Contents

Biomechanics

At the glenohumeral joint, movement of the humerus is performed by a combination of transverse abduction, by the posterior and lateral deltoids, [3] and external rotation, by the infraspinatus and teres minor. [4] At the scapulothoracic joint, the middle and lower fibers of the trapezius and the rhomboids contract to perform retraction of the scapulae. [5] To a lesser extent, the biceps are involved to flex the elbow joint, [6] while the spine erectors isometrically stabilize the lower back. [7]

Performance

The face pull is often performed standing using a cable machine and rope attachment, with the subject rowing the rope attachment towards the face, with the elbows flared outwards. [2] The exercise can, however, also be performed seated or with resistance bands.

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References

  1. Thomas R. Baechle, Roger W. Earle (2019). Weight Training: Steps to Success. Human Kinetics, Inc. p. 64. ISBN   978-1450411684.
  2. 1 2 Campbell, Adam (2009), The Men's Health Big Book of Exercises, Rodale Inc., ISBN   978-1-60529-550-3 p108
  3. Shoulder transverse abduction at Exrx.net
  4. Shoulder external rotation at Exrx.net
  5. Scapular retraction at Exrx.net
  6. Elbow flexion at Exrx.net
  7. Lumbar extension at Exrx.net