The lat pulldown is an excellent substitute for pull-ups for beginners and a good supplement for advanced lifters. It isolates the lats and builds the sought-after V-taper.
Technique
1Grip the bar just outside shoulder width with an overhand grip
2Lean back slightly, chest up toward the bar
3Pull down to your collarbone by driving your elbows down and back
4Look up and keep your chest high throughout the movement
5Extend fully at the top to stretch the lats completely