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Sled Pull (Stationary)

Intermediate

A bent-over sled pull with minimal hip movement that targets back, core, and grip to build pulling strength, endurance, and stability; performed over a set distance with controlled steps.

About Exercise

Equipment

Sled, Plates

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Lats, Traps

Secondary Muscles

Obliques, Glutes, Hamstrings, Quads

Popularity Score

5

Goals

Strength
Endurance
Conditioning
Stability

Training Style

Functional Training
CrossFit

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Large

Noise Level

Moderate

Muscle Breakdown

Lats

9/10

Teres Major

Traps

8/10

Upper Traps, Mid Traps

Biceps

7/10

Long Head

Forearms

6/10

Flexors

Lower Back

6/10

Erector Spinae

Abs

6/10

Rectus Abdominis

Obliques

5/10

External Obliques

Glutes

5/10

Glute Max

Hamstrings

5/10

Biceps Femoris

Quads

4/10

Rectus Femoris

Programming

Typical Rep Range

20-50 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-120 seconds

How to Perform

Attach straps to loaded sled. Stand facing it, hinge at hips into bent-over position with straight back and engaged core, feet shoulder-width apart.

  1. Grip straps firmly with arms extended.
  2. Brace core and maintain neutral spine.
  3. Take small controlled steps backward while pulling sled by contracting back and bending elbows.
  4. Keep hips stagnant with minimal movement.
  5. Sustain tension through upper body and core throughout distance.
  6. Release straps at end point.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Hips stagnant
  • Core braced
  • Back straight
  • Elbows to body
  • Grip tight

Breathing

Inhale to prepare, exhale during each pull while bracing core to maintain stability.

Tempo

2-0-2

Range of Motion

Pull until elbows reach torso or slightly past, with small steps backward over full designated distance while keeping torso at 45-degree angle.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Use even surface to prevent tipping
  • Start with light weight
  • Avoid if acute back pain
  • Remove strap slack before pulling
  • Warm up hips and back first

Spotting

Spotting not required; partner can assist with setup or monitor form from side.

Common Mistakes

  • Rounding back
  • Excessive hip sway
  • Loose core
  • Jerking motion
  • Slack in straps

When to Avoid

  • Acute lower back injury
  • Shoulder impingement
  • Poor grip strength

Flexibility Needed

  • Hip hinge mobility
  • Shoulder flexion for grip

Build Up First

  • Basic hip hinge form
  • Grip endurance
  • Core bracing proficiency

Also known as

Static Sled Drag, Bent-Over Sled Pull, Prowler Static Pull

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