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Ring Neutral-Grip Chin-Up

Build serious upper body strength with Ring Neutral-Grip Chin-Ups! Target your back & biceps for a powerful pull.

The Ring Neutral-Grip Chin-Up is a compound exercise that mainly works the biceps and back, with help from the traps. You'll need: gymnastic rings.

Mr. Grey
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Required Equipment

Gymnastic Rings
Gymnastic Rings

Ring Neutral-Grip 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 Ring Neutral-Grip Chin-Up

  • A sturdy overhead bar (if using rings is not an option)

1. Setup:

  • Adjust the rings to a height that allows you to hang with your feet off the ground comfortably.

  • Ensure that the rings are securely fastened and can support your weight.

  1. Starting Position:

    • Stand under the rings and grasp them with both hands.

    • Position your hands shoulder-width apart with your palms facing each other (neutral grip).

    • Jump or step off the ground to allow your body to hang freely from the rings.

    • Your arms should be fully extended, and your body should be straight, with your feet slightly off the ground.

  2. Engage Your Core:

    • Tighten your core muscles to maintain stability.

    • Keep your body straight and avoid swinging or using momentum.

  3. The Pull-Up Movement:

    • Begin the movement by pulling your elbows down towards your ribs.

    • Focus on activating your back muscles and biceps as you lift your body upward.

    • Keep your shoulders down and away from your ears to avoid straining.

  4. Reaching the Top Position:

    • Continue pulling until your chin is above the level of the rings.

    • Hold this position briefly at the top for a moment to maximize engagement of your upper body.

  5. Lowering Down:

    • Gradually lower yourself back to the starting position.

    • Control the descent to avoid dropping abruptly and pose a risk of injury.

  6. Repetitions:

    • Aim for 3 sets of 5-10 repetitions, depending on your fitness level.

    • Rest for 1-2 minutes between sets.

Tips:

  • Focus on form over quantity; it’s better to perform fewer reps correctly than many reps incorrectly.

  • If you're a beginner, consider using resistance bands to assist with the movement or perform the exercise with your feet on the ground for support.

Ring Neutral-Grip Chin-Up FAQs

What muscles does the Ring Neutral-Grip Chin-Up work?

The Ring Neutral-Grip 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 Ring Neutral-Grip Chin-Up?

Gymnastic rings.

Is the Ring Neutral-Grip 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 Ring Neutral-Grip Chin-Up go on?

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

What are some Ring Neutral-Grip Chin-Up variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Dip-Cage Hammer-Grip Pull-Up, Mixed-Grip Chin-Up, Neutral-Grip Chin-Up and Resistance-Band Assisted Neutral-Grip Chin-Up.

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