Core·Cable·Isolation

Pallof Press

Core · Cable

Beginner

Body Part

Core

Equipment

Cable

Level

Beginner

Type

Isolation

Force

Pull

The Pallof Press is a beginner cable exercise that primarily targets the Core.

Muscles Worked

Core primaryChest secondaryShoulders secondaryTriceps secondary

How to Do the Pallof Press

  1. 1Connect a standard handle to a tower, and—if possible—position the cable to shoulder height. If not, a low pulley will suffice.
  2. 2With your side to the cable, grab the handle with both hands and step away from the tower. You should be approximately arm's length away from the pulley, with the tension of the weight on the cable.
  3. 3With your feet positioned hip-width apart and knees slightly bent, hold the cable to the middle of your chest. This will be your starting position.
  4. 4Press the cable away from your chest, fully extending both arms. You core should be tight and engaged.
  5. 5Hold the repetition for several seconds before returning to the starting position.
  6. 6At the conclusion of the set, repeat facing the other direction.

Related Exercises

Exercise data from the open-source Free Exercise DB.