I first stumbled on the single-arm lat pulldown back in college, when building a bigger back was borderline obsession. I was chasing size, symmetry, and that wide V-taper look, but standard rows ...

Why: Using a machine row allows you to build major lat strength and muscle, since you'll be able to handle a lot more weight without putting your lower back in a potentially injurious position.

The lat pulldown is a multi-joint exercise that targets many back, shoulder, and arm muscles. Here's how to do it properly and how it can benefit you.