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Speed for this exercise

Overhead Cable Pallof Press

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3sets
10-12reps /side
60srest
~3.7kcal/min

How to do it

Muscles worked

Secondary
AbsShoulders

Secondary muscles help but are not the main target

See the full tier list · Obliques

Feel it right

Where you should feel it, the one cue to remember, and quick fixes when you feel it somewhere else.

You should feel it inSide waist

Whole core bracing — abs and glutes tight; shoulders only support.

Key cue (the coach says it during the set)“Squeeze glutes and abs, one straight line.”

Tempo · Hold steady, breathe slowly

Choosing the load: Pick a weight you finish with 1–2 good reps left. 4+ left = too light; form breaks = too heavy.

Feel it somewhere else? Fix it like this

  • Feel it in Lower backHips sagging. Tuck the tailbone and squeeze the glutes; shorten the hold or drop to the knees.
  • Feel it in ShouldersSinking into the shoulders. Push the floor away and keep the elbows under the shoulders.
  • Feel it in Neck / upper trapsNeck strain. Look at the floor slightly ahead, head in line with the spine.
  • Barely felt itToo light or too fast. Lower for 3 seconds, pause 1 second at the stretch, and pick a load that leaves only 1–2 reps in the tank.
  • Joint painSharp or joint pain is a stop sign: end this set, lower the weight, shorten the range — if it repeats, switch to an easier variation.

During a workout we ask after the first set where you felt it and give the fix right away — and remember it for next time.

Tips

  • The farther your arms extend, the harder it gets; keep your hips and shoulders square.
  • Squeeze your glutes and keep a soft bend in your knees.
  • Stand far enough from the stack to keep constant tension on the cable.

Common mistakes

  • Letting your torso twist toward the anchor.
  • Shrugging your shoulders as you press.

Breathing

Exhale as you press out, inhale as you bring the handle back.

Equipment needed

Recommended by goal

Build muscle3–4 sets × 8–12 reps · rest 60–90 s
Strength4–5 sets × 4–6 reps · rest 2–3 min
Endurance2–3 sets × 15–20 reps · rest 30–45 s

Variations of this move

Alternatives for the same muscle