Exercise guide

Pull Up.

Equipment
Bodyweight
Movement
Compound
Level
Beginner

Muscles at work

Front
Back
PrimaryLats
SecondaryAbs, Biceps, Shoulders, Upper Back

Make every rep count.

  1. 01

    Grab the bar with an overhand (pronated) grip, hands slightly wider than shoulder-width.

  2. 02

    Before you move: take a deep breath, squeeze your glutes, and brace your abs to keep your body tight.

  3. 03

    Set your shoulders by pulling your shoulder blades down (don’t shrug). Then initiate the pull by driving your elbows straight down toward the floor as your lats engage.

  4. 04

    Keep your chest up and body steady as you pull until your chin reaches the bar.

  5. 05

    Pause briefly, then lower under control back to a full hang without losing tension. Repeat for the prescribed reps.

More exercises for the same muscle

See all exercises