Scoring methodology: Mechanical Tension (lever ratio) + Tension Continuity (cable vs free weight) + Muscle Breadth (compound vs isolation) + Stretch-Under-Load + Joint Safety + Progressive Overload Potential. Total 0–100. Source: exercise_hypertrophy_scores.xlsx derived from relabeled_magic_excel_20260412.xlsx.
Why these exercises & this order
The Nautilus pullover opens as the highest-scoring back exercise while grip is irrelevant (arm pad), then a wide pulldown loads upper lats through adduction, and the cross-bench pullover finishes lats at stretch. Biceps pair a floor cable curl (stretch) with a concentrated bar curl (strict). Rear delts and traps close as pull-pattern synergists.
Pullover machine first — highest-scoring back exercise (79/A), grip-free, pure lat isolation
Wide pulldown second — upper lat emphasis through a different vector than the pullover
Cross-bench pullover third — maximum lat stretch with hips below bench level
Five A-grade and two B-grade exercises. Different vectors from Day 2's pull session: pullover + pulldown + stretch vs. pulldown + row + deadlift.