The hi low pulleys machine
The hi low pulleys machine actually offers three heights of pulleys, and is one of the most basic and versatile of all the available gym equipment.
The three pulleys, one above the head, one at weight height, and one at the level of the feet, allow for a huge number of cabled exercises, and will make this machine one of the most versatile pieces, and therefore best value gym stations, in any professional gym environment.
The machine can be used for seated rows, lat pull downs, cable crossovers, triceps presses and many more possible exercises.
Every comprehensive gym must have a quality cable machine for the performance of cabled exercises, and the simple design of the hi low gym station is a fantastic solution for any space or budget conscious professional gym.
The machine is composed of heavy gauge steel, and will offer many years of reliable and durable service, even under the heaviest of usages.
Muscles worked by the crossover pulleys
The range of possible exercises on the hi low machine is far too numerous to be covered effectively within the limited scope of this article. Virtually every major muscle on the body can be worked through an exercise using the weighted cables of the hi low machine. The cable machines are very often used for lat pulls and seated rows, which are back and specifically lats exercises, and the triceps press, which is an isolator of the triceps. The cable crossover, which is another very popular cabled exercise, works the deltoids and biceps, but focuses on the chest.
The appearance and dimensions of the hi low machine
The hi low machine is composed of heavy gauge steel tubing in white, and has three pulleyed levels for the attachment of various exercise bars. The pulleys are above the head, at waist height, and at the level of the feet.
The weight is adjustable through a variable pinioning system, and the cables and pulleys offer smooth action, and are designed for years of reliable, maintenance free service in any professional gym environment.
How to use the crossover pulleys
The many exercises possible on this machine make a description of their correct execution beyond the limited scope of this article.
For any exercise, the first thing that should be done, is to attach the correct bar accessory into the machine, to allow for the proper execution of the movement, and then to select the correct amount of weight to be lifted. Adjust the weight by inserting the steel pin into the correct slot below the desired number of weight plates to be lifted.
Whichever exercise you perform on the hi low machine, you should perform that exercise with as many repetitions as will bring you to muscle failure, and for best results, perform three sets of repetitions per training session.
Incorrect use of the crossover pulleys can lead to injury
The hi low machine is very safe, and user friendly. The exercises performed on this machine can be quickly mastered by even novice users, but the machine offers a range of available weight that will keep the machine challenging and rewarding to even the most experienced lifter at any gym.
All exercises performed on the hi low machine can be safely performed without the need for a spotter or assistant.
The greatest risk of injury on the hi low machine comes from insufficiently warming up prior to lifting with heavy weights. You should always stretch and warm up properly prior to lifting with heavy weights. Approaching strenuous exercise with “cold” muscles is much more likely to lead to a muscle tear or muscle strain. These can be very painful, can hamper training, and can even limit mobility; and thus should be avoided.
An excellent way to warm up prior to lifting heavy weights is to perform a preliminary set of any exercise, with a very light weight. This will prime the muscles for the heavy lifting to come, and will reduce the likelihood of injury.
Variable techniques for the hi low pulleys machine
The quantity of variations possible on this very versatile machine are numerous; and are far too many to be covered within the scope of this article.
In general, if you are trying to achieve muscle and strength growth, you should perform fewer repetitions with a heavier total weight, and if you are trying to shape and tone, you should perform more repetitions with a reduced total weight.
Why you should consider the crossover pulley machine
The hi low machine is a very versatile machine, will allow for the execution of a great number of distinct muscle movements, and is for the training of almost all muscle groups in the body. There are few other machines that can offer the versatility that the hi low machine can boast.
The machine is very easy and safe to use. Beginner users will be able to quickly master the needed techniques, but the machine also offers a range of available weight that will keep it challenging enough for even the strongest power lifter at any gym.
The machine is composed of heavy gauge steel, and quality mechanisms, and is designed to offer many years of reliability and durability. The machine is relatively simple, and when you consider how many different exercises can be performed off of the hi low platform, is one of the very best possible values on offer today.