Latissimus Dorsi

Short definition

Wide back muscle — the largest muscle by volume: adducts and flexes the shoulder.

Full definition

Latissimus dorsi is a broad muscle from the lower thoracic and lumbar vertebrae, sacral crest, upper iliac crest, lower ribs and thoracic wall to the intertubercular groove of the humerus. Functions: adduction, extension and internal rotation of the humerus; descending row (pull-ups); scapular stabilization. Mass ≈ 1.5–2 % (at 20–25 % body fat). One of the largest and strongest muscles.

Examples

Wide-grip pull-ups — emphasis on the lats.

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