Cable Crossover Machines

Cable crossover machines basically resemble a frame with two pulleys at either side, one at the top and one at the bottom. Weight stacks are used to create resistance on the pulleys and a variety of attachments are used accommodate exercises from lat pull downs to triceps press downs.

The thing that I like the most about cable crossover machines is that the pulleys are able to supply continual resistance throughout whatever exercise you're performing. This means they don't take the stress off of your muscles so they're constantly flexing. Also, I never get bored of using this machine. The pulleys are versatile can create great muscle definition by targeting muscles that free weights alone can't isolate and the multiple pulley attachments allow you to experiment with a variety of exercises:

For the Chest cable crossovers, chest pulls, underhand low pulley crossovers and lateral raises

For the Abs kneeling abdominal crunches or lay on your back with your feet attached to a low pulley for weighted leg lifts, also work your obliques by grasping a single low pulley and crunching.

For the Back cable flies

For the Biceps cable curls

For the Triceps cable press downs

For the Upper Back chin-ups (also for the biceps and forearms)

For the Legs & Glutes leg-kick exercises

If I haven't already sold you on the attributes of the cable crossover, I can attest that as a woman they are able to accommodate all different heights and body types. So ladies, you can work out on a cable crossover machine just as easily as a man.

To perform simple cable crossover exercises stand in the center of the frame with a high-cable handle in each hand. Extend your arms straight out from your sides (in a T-stance), with your palms facing the floor. Keeping your arms straight, but keep your elbows loose, as you sweep your arms in crossing your wrists just at your waist.