Face Pulls
Essential for shoulder health. Strengthen your rear delts and rotator cuff to balance all the pressing.
Difficulty
beginner
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Rear Delts, Rhomboids
Equipment
Cable Machine, Rope Attachment
Secondary Muscles
Traps, Rotator Cuff
Form cues
Simple cues for better reps
- Use a load light enough that the target shoulder muscle starts the rep.
- Keep your neck relaxed and avoid shrugging.
- Move through a smooth arc rather than throwing the weight.
- Pause briefly where the target muscle is most contracted.
Common mistakes
What to avoid
Swinging the weight
Reduce load and use a slower tempo with a clear stop between reps.
Shrugging every rep
Keep shoulders away from ears and lead with the elbow or hand depending on the exercise.
Chasing range that irritates the shoulder
Stop in the pain-free range and prioritise tension over height.
How it should feel
Know when your form is on track
Target areas
- The intended delt or upper-back area should burn before anything else.
- The movement should feel controlled rather than heavy.
Good signs
- Tension builds smoothly across the set.
- Your torso stays quiet and your neck stays relaxed.
Warning signs
- Sharp shoulder pain or clicking that gets worse.
- You only feel traps or lower back.
Progressions
Make it easier
- Use cables, bands, or lighter dumbbells for smoother resistance.
- Work one arm at a time if you need better control.
Make it harder
- Add reps before adding much load.
- Use a short pause at peak tension.
Best alternatives
Band Face Pulls
Keeps a similar training effect while changing the setup or loading style.
Prone Y Raises
Keeps a similar training effect while changing the setup or loading style.
Cable Lateral Raise
Provides smooth tension through the shoulder range.
How to Perform
- Set up: Attach a rope to a cable machine at upper chest to face height.
- Grip: Grab the rope with both hands, palms facing each other.
- Pull: Pull the rope towards your face, separating your hands as they come towards you. Your elbows should end up high and wide.
- Squeeze: At the end position, externally rotate your shoulders so your fists point towards the ceiling. Squeeze your rear delts.
- Return: Slowly extend your arms back to the start.
Why Everyone Should Do Face Pulls
Most people do far more pushing (bench press, overhead press, push-ups) than pulling. This creates an imbalance that rounds your shoulders forward and puts you at risk for shoulder injuries. Face pulls correct this.
Essential Equipment
| Equipment | Why You Need It | Our Pick | Review |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resistance Bands | Do face pulls anywhere without a cable machine | POWER GUIDANCE Bands | Read Review |
Variations
- Band Face Pulls
- Prone Y Raises
- Reverse Flyes
Frequently asked questions
Are Face Pulls good for beginners?
Yes, as long as you choose a version and load you can control. Start conservatively, learn the setup, and only progress when the target muscles are doing the work without joint discomfort.
How heavy should I go on the Face Pulls?
Use a weight that leaves 1-3 good reps in reserve for most working sets. If your range shortens, momentum increases, or you stop feeling the target muscles, reduce the load.
What can I use if I do not have a Cable Machine?
Use one of the listed alternatives that trains the same pattern. The exact tool matters less than matching the movement, controlling the rep, and progressing gradually.
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