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Pull-Up

Updated

Master the pull-up! Build upper body strength with this challenging exercise. Follow our guide for proper form and start progressing today.

The Pull-Up is a compound exercise that mainly works the back, with help from the biceps, shoulders and traps. You'll need: pull up bar.

Pull-Up demo video 2
Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Required Equipment

Pull Up Bar
Pull Up Bar

Pull-Up Muscles Worked

Primary

Lats (latissimus dorsi)

Secondary

Biceps (biceps brachii); Front Shoulder (anterior deltoid); Upper Traps (trapezius, upper fibers)

How to do the Pull-Up

  1. Stand under the pull-up bar and grip it with both hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.

  2. Hang from the bar with your legs straight or crossed behind you and arms fully extended.

  3. Engage your core muscles and pull your body up by bending your elbows and driving them towards your hips. Keep your elbows close to your body.

  4. Continue to pull yourself up until your chin is over the bar.

  5. Pause at the top for a moment.

  6. Lower yourself back down to the starting position with a controlled motion until your arms are fully extended again.

  7. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions and sets.

  8. Ensure not to swing or use momentum to complete the motion, as this will reduce the effectiveness of the exercise on the targeted muscle group.

Remember to maintain proper form throughout the exercise to prevent injury and ensure optimal muscle engagement.

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Pull-Up FAQs

What muscles does the Pull-Up work?

The Pull-Up mainly works the back, with help from the biceps, shoulders and traps. The main muscles are the latissimus dorsi.

What equipment do you need for the Pull-Up?

Pull up bar.

Is the Pull-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 Pull-Up go on?

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

What are some Pull-Up variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Archer Pull-Up, Bench Pull-Up, Muscle Bar Up and Bodyweight Standing Single-Arm Close-Grip Row.

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