A Cable Exercise That Supports Deadlift and Bench

Today we’re digging into one specific accessory movement. This’ll be a short one, and we’ll send another focused tip on Tuesday. This new format is based on your feedback—shorter, more targeted reads. Let us know what you think at the bottom of the email!

Let’s talk about cable pullovers. They’re often seen in bodybuilding routines, but they’ve got real value for powerlifters, too, especially if you care about improving your deadlift and bench press.

Cable pullovers isolate the lats in a way that’s tough to replicate with compound lifts. That might not seem like a big deal at first, but here’s the thing: your lats are a key stabilizer in both the bench and the deadlift. Stronger lats help keep the bar close to your body on the pull and provide back tightness for a more stable press. If you’re not training them directly, you’re probably leaving some strength gains on the table.

And unlike barbell rows or weighted pull-ups, pullovers are joint-friendly. You can train them with high volume without beating up your elbows or low back. That’s ideal for accessory days or when you’re managing fatigue.

Are they flashy? Not really. But if you’re stuck with deadlift lockout issues or struggling to stay tight on the bench, cable pullovers might be the quiet fix you need.

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Common Bench Mistake: Not Breathing Correctly

Breathing in the bench press is important because it is directly tied to bracing which, in the bench press, is important for keeping your chest up and maintaining stability throughout the lift.

Breathing can be done wrong in a number of ways including breathing normally as if you’re not lifting, holding your breath too hard, or exhaling and inhaling at the wrong times.

You should inhale at the start of the lift before you initiate the lowering of the barbell, this will help you puff up your chest, reduce the range of motion and prepare to receive the weight. You then should brace your core and hold your breath while also allowing a small and controlled breath to come out throughout as you work to press the weight.

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