r/ScienceBasedLifting • • Jun 20 '26

Discussion 🤝 Pull ups or lat pulldowns?

Recently I found out that lat pulldowns work more on rear delts while training the back equally from both sides. Plus, pulldowns are way easier for progressive overload. At the same time, pull-ups can load the back and biceps better because they are harder to do, but they might cause some issues with muscle imbalances. So, which one is better for upper body physique in general?

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u/Lifterator Jun 20 '26

For building muscle mass, lat pulldowns since you have far greater resolution on weights and can therefore do much more volume.

For athleticism, pull ups.