A few subtle tweaks will make this exercise much more effective at targeting the lats. But first...
What NOT To Do:
Here the elbows are tracking back, putting an anterior shearing force on the shoulder. This also works more biceps, upper back, and posterior shoulders instead of the lats.
What To Do:
You want your elbows tracking down and back – similar to a row – alleviating shearing force on the front of the shoulder while maximizing lat engagement. If you compare the two, it's obvious that this second movement bypasses the upper back and places way more tension on the lats.
Bonus: Add some handles for a more natural movement.
Related:
5 Lat Exercises Everyone is Doing Wrong
Related:
The Unilateral Pulldown
related posts
6 Ways to Keep Getting Stronger
Never stop making gains. Never hit a plateau. Never stop getting stronger. Here's how.
Tip: The Worst Way to Deadlift
Yes, everyone should deadlift, but one variation should be avoided.
Tip: Sled and Farmer's Walk Finisher
Combine the two toughest forms of metabolic conditioning into one brutal workout finisher.
Tip: Top to Bottom Trap Building
Shrugs are good, but this exercise is better for all-around trap hypertrophy.