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Last updated March 30, 2026
LatsLower BackTeres MajorTrapezius
Pullup
Hang with an overhand grip slightly wider than shoulders. Pull your chest up to the bar, driving your elbows down. Lower yourself all the way to a dead hang to build real strength.
Quick facts
- Level
- Advanced
- Mechanic
- Compound
- Force
- Pull
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Moderate
- Hypertrophy
- Very High
- 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.
- Step 1Setup
- Find a pull-up bar that is sturdy and at an appropriate height for you.
- Stand under the bar and reach up to grab it with both hands, using an overhand grip (palms facing away from you).
- Step 2Grip the Bar
- Position your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
- Ensure your grip is firm and your wrists are straight.
- Step 3Engage Your Core
- Before you start the pull-up, engage your core muscles to stabilize your body.
- Keep your legs straight or slightly bent at the knees, and cross your ankles if comfortable.
- Step 4Hang from the Bar
- Allow your body to hang from the bar with your arms fully extended.
- Keep your shoulders down and away from your ears, and maintain a neutral spine.
- Step 5Pull Up
- Begin the movement by pulling your elbows down and back, engaging your back and arm muscles.
- Focus on bringing your chin above the bar while keeping your body straight.
- Step 6Lower Down
- Slowly lower your body back to the starting position with your arms fully extended.
- Maintain control throughout the descent to avoid swinging.
- Step 7Repeat
- Perform the desired number of repetitions, ensuring you maintain proper form with each pull-up.
- Step 8Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully step down from the bar or lower yourself to the ground.
- Take a moment to stretch your arms and shoulders after the exercise.
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