Cable Pallof Press

CableIsolationIsolation

Rep Range

812

Rest Time

1m 30s

Increment

5 lb

Muscles Worked

Abs

How to Perform

  1. 1

    Set the pulley to the appropriate height for the exercise — low for curls, high for tricep pushdowns, mid for crossovers.

  2. 2

    Grip the handle or attachment firmly. Step into a stable stance with a slight stagger for balance.

  3. 3

    Perform the movement by contracting only the target muscle. Cables provide constant tension, so move slowly and deliberately.

  4. 4

    Control the return to the starting position. The cable should never go slack during the set.

Common Mistakes

  • Using too much weight and compensating with other muscle groups. Isolation demands strict form over ego loads.

  • Rushing through reps without controlling the eccentric. The lowering phase should be 2-3 seconds minimum.

  • Cutting the range of motion short. Full range builds more muscle and healthier joints.

Pro Tips

  • Exhale forcefully as you contract your abs. This activates the transverse abdominis and makes the crunch or leg raise significantly more effective.

  • Think about shortening the distance between your sternum and your pelvis, not about moving your head or legs.

Related Exercises

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