Back Machines

Gym Back Machines for a total back workout

A whole range of gym exercise machines are available for both home and commercial use. Seated row machines can be either cable-operated or feature handles and a chest pad for chest supported rows.

What muscles make up the back?

The muscle at the top of the back and either side of the neck is the trapezius (or traps), just under these either side of the spine are the rhomboids. Further down and extending out to the site is the latissimus dorsi (known as lats) and at the base of the spine is the erector spinae.

Each of these muscles perform a different function, such as shoulder movement, stability or posture. As such, each needs different exercises to target them. You can use free weights or a back workout machine to achieve this.

Which exercises work which part of the back?

Traps - You can work the traps effectively with a cable machine. Exercises that will focus on the traps include cable shrugs and cable face pulls. Rhomboids - Target your rhomboids with seated rows and reverse cable flyes.

Lats - Lat pulldowns, pull ups and rows will target and strengthen your lats

Erector Spinae - Back extensions, deadlifts and Jefferson curls will all help to strengthen your lower back.

What Gym machines can I get to work my back?

If you are looking to work those lats, then there is a selection of lat pulldown machines. These are available as dual purpose machines that also allow you to carry out seated rows.

Hyperextension benches allow you to extend your spine by resting against the pad and lifting your head up and back as far as possible to stretch your back.

Back machines offer a great range of motion and would be an excellent addition to any home gym or commercial setting.

For more details on back exercises, check out these blogs.

Q&A - Lat Pulldowns
Lat Pulldown vs Pull Ups
Get Bigger Lats with a Seated Row Machine