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Assisted Close-Grip Underhand Chin-Up

Build upper body strength! This assisted exercise makes close-grip chin-ups achievable for all fitness levels.

The Assisted Close-Grip Underhand Chin-Up is a compound exercise that mainly works the biceps and back, with help from the traps. You'll need: assisted pull up machine.

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Required Equipment

Assisted Pull Up Machine
Assisted Pull Up Machine

Assisted Close-Grip Underhand Chin-Up Muscles Worked

Primary

Biceps (biceps brachii); Lats (latissimus dorsi)

Secondary

Rhomboids (Shoulder Blade) (rhomboids, major & minor); Mid Traps (trapezius, middle fibers)

How to do the Assisted Close-Grip Underhand Chin-Up

Assisted Close Grip Underhand Chin Up Instructions

Positioning:

  1. Setup the Machine: Adjust the height of the knee pad if possible, to ensure it fits comfortably against your thighs.

  2. Grip the Handles: Stand on the machine and grasp the close grip handles with your palms facing you (underhand grip). Your hands should be about shoulder-width apart.

  3. Knees on the Pad: Kneel on the knee pad so it supports your body weight.

Movement:

  1. Starting Position: Begin with your arms fully extended and your body hanging down. Keep your legs bent slightly and your core engaged.

  2. Pulling Up: Inhale and pull your body up towards the handles, leading with your chest. Focus on using your back and bicep muscles.

  3. Reach the Top: Continue pulling up until your chin is above the height of the handles or as high as you can comfortably go.

  4. Lowering Down: Exhale and slowly lower your body back down to the starting position. Make sure to maintain control throughout the movement.

  5. Repetitions: Perform the desired amount of repetitions (typically 8-12 for beginners) while taking short pauses between each.

Tips:

  • Start with a lighter weight on the machine if applicable to assist with the exercise.

  • Maintain a straight spine throughout the movement to avoid strain.

  • Ensure your movements are smooth and controlled; avoid swinging or using momentum.

Assisted Close-Grip Underhand Chin-Up FAQs

What muscles does the Assisted Close-Grip Underhand Chin-Up work?

The Assisted Close-Grip Underhand Chin-Up mainly works the biceps and back, with help from the traps. The main muscles are the biceps brachii and latissimus dorsi.

What equipment do you need for the Assisted Close-Grip Underhand Chin-Up?

Assisted pull up machine.

Is the Assisted Close-Grip Underhand Chin-Up a compound exercise?

Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.

What workout day should the Assisted Close-Grip Underhand Chin-Up go on?

It belongs on pull day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Assisted Close-Grip Underhand Chin-Up variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Machine Assisted Dips, Bench Assisted Chin-Up, Assisted Parallel Close-Grip Pull-Up and Machine Assisted Pull-Up.

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