Train Fitness has rebranded to Motra. Learn More

Suspension Trainer Face Pull exercise demonstration image

Video Coming Soon

We're working on adding video demonstrations for this exercise.

Suspension Trainer Face Pull

Intermediate
Home Friendly

Suspension trainer horizontal pull that targets rear deltoids and mid traps to build shoulder stability; commonly scaled by adjusting foot placement.

About Exercise

Equipment

Suspension Trainer

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Shoulders, Traps

Secondary Muscles

Lats, Biceps, Abs

Popularity Score

8

Goals

Strength
Stability
Rehab

Training Style

Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Shoulders

9/10

Rear Delts

Traps

8/10

Mid Traps, Lower Traps

Lats

5/10

Biceps

4/10

Abs

3/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Anchor the suspension trainer at head height. Grasp handles with an overhand grip, arms extended, and lean back to create tension, maintaining a straight body line.

  1. Pull handles toward the forehead while driving elbows high and wide.
  2. Externally rotate shoulders to bring hands back in line with ears.
  3. Squeeze shoulder blades together at the peak of the movement.
  4. Lower slowly to the starting position with controlled tension.
  5. Maintain a tight core and neutral spine throughout.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Elbows high
  • Thumbs back
  • Ribs down
  • Squeeze blades
  • Body like a plank

Breathing

Exhale as you pull towards the face; inhale as you return to the start.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

From full arm extension to hands aligned with ears, elbows bent at 90 degrees.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Maintain neutral neck position.
  • Ensure anchor point is secure.
  • Stop if sharp shoulder pain occurs.

Spotting

Not recommended; adjust foot position to self-spot.

Common Mistakes

  • Dropping elbows
  • Jutting head forward
  • Arching lower back
  • Using momentum
  • Shrugging shoulders

When to Avoid

  • Shoulder impingement
  • Rotator cuff injury
  • Acute neck pain

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder external rotation
  • Thoracic extension

Build Up First

  • Basic pulling strength
  • Scapular control competency

Also known as

TRX Face Pull, Suspension Face Pull, TRX Rear Delt Pull, Suspension High Row, TRX Scapular Retraction

Found this helpful?

Share your thoughts or help us improve this guide.

Hero Image

Master your movement.

Experience automatic exercise detection and rep counting - powered by the motion of your Apple Watch.

We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking 'Accept All', you consent to our use of cookies.