backintermediateReviewed by Rohan Varma, CSCS

Dumbbell Pullover

Expands the ribcage and provides a massive eccentric stretch to the latissimus dorsi.

Recommended Sets3 Sets
Rep Range10–12 Reps
Rest Period60s Rest
Equipmentdumbbell, bench

3D Visual Form & Technique Demonstration

Biomechanically verified form execution and joint angle cues.

Official Video Tutorial · 3D Biomechanics & Form DemonstrationWatch on YouTube
How to Execute the Dumbbell Pullover

Lie perpendicular across a flat bench with upper back on pad, hips slightly dropped. Hold one dumbbell with both hands forming a diamond under the top weight plate.

  • Primary Muscle: BACK
  • Secondary Synergists: CHEST, TRICEPS
  • Rest Interval: 60 seconds between sets

Dumbbell Pullover Anatomy Activation

Primary motor unit recruitment for back with secondary synergist stabilizers.

Primary (back)
Secondary Synergists
Anterior (Front View)
Anterior Muscle Recruitment: backFront anatomical silhouette highlighting back in orange as active agonist.
Secondary / Stabilizer View
Posterior (Back View)
Posterior Muscle Recruitment: backBack anatomical silhouette highlighting back in orange as active agonist.
● Primary Target View
Anatomical PlaneSagittal & Frontal Planes
Primary KinesiologyHumeral Adduction & Scapular Retraction
Biomechanical VectorInferior-posterior vector towards lower spine
Active Anatomy:Primary: backSynergist: chestSynergist: triceps
Figure: Biomechanical muscle recruitment model for back. Highlighted in orange is the primary agonist motor unit; highlighted in blue are synergistic stabilizing groups (chest, triceps).

Step-by-Step Execution Guide

1

Lie perpendicular across a flat bench with upper back on pad, hips slightly dropped.

2

Hold one dumbbell with both hands forming a diamond under the top weight plate.

3

Lower dumbbell in an arc over head towards floor with slight elbow bend.

4

Pull dumbbell back over chest using lats, keeping core engaged.

Common Mistakes & Form Fixes

Bending elbows excessively like a skull crusher.

Hyperextending spine.

Biomechanical Safety & Injury Warning

Warm up shoulder mobility thoroughly before heavy pullovers.

Alternative Exercises & Swaps

If the equipment is occupied or you need a joint-friendly variation, substitute with these approved movements:

Rohan Varma, CSCS
Authored By
Rohan Varma, CSCSHead Strength Coach & Biomechanics Lead
Rohan Varma, CSCS
Medically Reviewed By
Rohan Varma, CSCSHead Strength Coach & Biomechanics Lead
Last Reviewed & Verified: 2026-03-29
Read our Medical Fact-Checking Standards