Stop pulling with your hands if you want to build a bigger back.

The back is easily one of the most neglected body parts—mostly because it's out of sight, out of mind.

But it’s essential for good posture, balancing out chest work, and giving you a complete physique.

When I first started training over 30 years ago, it actually was the body part that I was drawn to.

If you struggle to actually feel your back working, try this simple mindset shift:

Pull with your elbows.

Stop thinking about pulling with your hands. Picture your arms as simple hooks and focus entirely on driving your elbows back. In fact often I don’t even use my thumbs, which help increase this queue.

Utilizing gripping tools like straps, can help with this exercise as well. I’ve used Schiek products for years as they hold up and feel great.

Next time you’re doing rows or pulldowns, think about pulling with your elbows a shot and see how much better your back contracts!