These two exercises target back muscles, primarily the latissimus dorsi (“lats”), rhomboids, and trapezius. One involves pulling a weighted bar downwards from an overhead position, while the other involves pulling a handle towards the torso while seated. Both utilize varying grips and angles to engage different muscle fibers, contributing to back width and thickness development.
Strengthening these muscles offers significant benefits, including improved posture, enhanced athletic performance in activities like rowing and swimming, and increased functional strength for everyday tasks. Historically, variations of these exercises have been practiced for centuries to build upper body strength, although modern gym equipment has refined and standardized the movements.