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💪 Pull-Ups

Pull-Ups are an advanced upper body exercise that targets the latissimus dorsi, biceps, rear deltoids, and core. Hang from a bar and pull yourself up until your chin clears the bar. The gold standard of upper body pulling strength. They're used to build strength and support general conditioning. Below is how to perform Pull-Ups with correct form, plus the benefits, common mistakes, and how many reps to aim for.

Upper BodyAdvancedPull-Up Bar4 × 6

Benefits of the Pull-Ups

  • Strengthens and activates the latissimus dorsi, biceps, rear deltoids, and core
  • Improves strength
  • Great for general conditioning and everyday strength
  • Can be done with simple equipment (pull-up bar)
  • Performed standing, so it's easy to set up

How to do the Pull-Ups

  1. Hang from the pull-up bar with an overhand grip, slightly wider than shoulder-width
  2. Start from a dead hang with arms fully extended
  3. Pull yourself up by driving your elbows down and back
  4. Continue until your chin clears the bar
  5. Lower yourself slowly back to a dead hang

How many reps & sets

A common starting point is 4 sets of 6 reps. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.

Form tips

  • Initiate the pull by depressing your shoulder blades
  • Don't kip or swing — strict form
  • Full range of motion: dead hang to chin over bar
  • If you can't do a full pull-up, use a band for assistance

Muscles worked

Latissimus Dorsi, Biceps, Rear Deltoids, Core

When to be cautious

  • Shoulder pain
  • Elbow tendinitis

Who should do the Pull-Ups?

Pull-Ups are well suited to advanced exercisers looking to strengthen the upper body and improve strength as part of general conditioning.

Pull-Ups — FAQ

What muscles do Pull-Ups work?
Pull-Ups primarily target the latissimus dorsi, biceps, rear deltoids, and core.
How many sets and reps of Pull-Ups should I do?
A common starting point is 4 sets of 6 reps. Progress gradually and stop if you feel sharp pain.
Do I need equipment for Pull-Ups?
You'll need: pull-up bar.
When should I avoid Pull-Ups?
Take care or skip them if you have: shoulder pain and elbow tendinitis. When in doubt, check with your physiotherapist.
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