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Last updated March 30, 2026
LatsLower BackTeres MajorTrapezius

Chin Up

Grip the bar with palms facing you. Pull your chin over the bar. This hits the lats effectively but involves the biceps more than a pull-up.

Quick facts

Level
Advanced
Mechanic
Compound
Force
Pull
Type
Strength
Injury Risk
Moderate
Hypertrophy
Medium
Calorie Burn
High

Muscle focus

Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.

Primary

Lats

Secondary

Biceps

Equipment & setup

What you need and how to position yourself before starting.

Equipment

Pull Up Bar

Movement pattern

Bilateral

Posture

Hanging

Tracking parameters

repsweight

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.

  1. Step 1Setup
    • Find a pull-up bar that is sturdy and at an appropriate height for you.
    • Stand beneath the bar and reach up to grab it with both hands, using an underhand (supinated) grip.
  2. Step 2Grip the Bar
    • Position your hands shoulder-width apart on the bar.
    • Ensure your palms are facing you and your grip is firm.
  3. Step 3Engage Your Core
    • Before you start the movement, engage your core and squeeze your shoulder blades together.
    • This will help stabilize your body during the chin-up.
  4. Step 4Hang from the Bar
    • Let your body hang freely from the bar with your arms fully extended.
    • Keep your legs straight or slightly bent, and avoid swinging.
  5. Step 5Pull Yourself Up
    • Begin the movement by pulling your elbows down towards your sides.
    • Focus on using your back and biceps to lift your chin above the bar.
  6. Step 6Reach the Top
    • Continue pulling until your chin is above the bar.
    • Hold this position for a moment to ensure control.
  7. Step 7Lower Yourself Down
    • Slowly lower your body back to the starting position, fully extending your arms.
    • Maintain control throughout the descent to avoid dropping.
  8. Step 8Repeat
    • Perform the desired number of repetitions, focusing on maintaining good form throughout each chin-up.
  9. Step 9Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your reps, carefully step down from the bar if necessary.
    • Take a moment to stretch your arms and shoulders after the exercise.

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Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025