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Pull Up Progressions: How To Level Up

June 09, 2023 4 min read

Pull Up Progressions: How To Level Up

Pull ups are one of the most effective exercises to build upper body strength, tone your back, and even improve your posture. They can be done in a variety of ways, and there are several different pull up progressions that you can use to level up and get better results.

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In this article, we'll take a look at how to progress from basic pullups to more advanced versions. We'll also discuss how to incorporate pullups into your regular workout routine, and what type of equipment you'll need to make sure you're doing them correctly. By the end of this article, you'll know exactly how to level up your pullup game.

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What is a Pull Up?

A pull-up is an exercise in which you hang from a bar and pull yourself up until your chin passes the bar. It's a compound exercise that works several muscles in your upper body, including your back, shoulders, biceps, and triceps. The pull-up is a great way to build strength and muscle mass, and it can also help to improve your posture.

The traditional version of the pull-up requires you to use an overhead bar. You can also use a Smith machine or a TRX suspension trainer if you don't have access to an overhead bar. While the traditional pull-up is the most effective version, there are several variations that you can use to make the exercise easier or harder depending on your fitness level.

Types of Pull Up Progressions

There are several types of pull up progressions that you can use to increase the difficulty of the exercise. These progressions include:

  • Negative Pull Ups: Negative pull ups involve lowering your body from the pull up bar in a slow and controlled manner. This variation is great for building strength and control when you're just starting out with pull ups.
  • Assisted Pull Ups: Assisted pull ups involve using an assistance band or weight to reduce the amount of weight you have to lift. This is a great way to build up to unassisted pull ups.
  • Weighted Pull Ups: Weighted pull ups involve adding extra weight to your body by either wearing a weighted vest or holding a dumbbell between your feet. This variation is great for building more strength and power.
  • Chin Ups: Chin ups are similar to pull ups, but they involve gripping the bar with your palms facing you instead of away from you. This variation is great for targeting your biceps more than other pull up variations.
  • Wide Grip Pull Ups: Wide grip pull ups involve gripping the bar with your hands spread further apart than usual. This variation recruits more muscles in your back and shoulders, making it a great way to build strength and power.
  • close grip pull ups: Close grip pull ups involve gripping the bar with your hands close together. This variation targets your triceps more than other pull up variations.

Equipment Needed For Pull Up Progressions

When doing pull up progressions, you'll need certain pieces of equipment to ensure you're performing the moves safely and correctly. This includes:

  • Pull Up Bar: A pull up bar is essential for performing any type of pull up. If you don't have access to an overhead bar, you can also use a Smith machine or a TRX suspension trainer.
  • Assistance Bands: Assistance bands, also known as resistance bands, are great for performing assisted pull ups. They come in various levels of resistance, so you can find one that matches your current strength level.
  • Weighted Vest: A weighted vest is ideal for performing weighted pull ups. It adds extra weight to your body, allowing you to increase the difficulty of the exercise.
  • Dumbbells: Dumbbells are great for performing weighted pull ups. You can hold a dumbbell between your feet while you do the exercise, which will add extra resistance to the move.

Tips for Incorporating Pull Up Progressions Into Your Workout Routine

Here are some tips for incorporating pull up progressions into your regular workout routine:

  • Start Slow: Before attempting more advanced pull up progressions, start with the basics. Do standard pull ups with perfect form, and slowly work your way up to more challenging variations. Don't rush into anything that you're not ready for.
  • Utilize Assistance Bands: Assistance bands are great for helping you to build up to more difficult pull up variations. Start with the lightest band, and then gradually move up to heavier bands as you build strength.
  • Increase the Resistance: When you're ready to increase the difficulty of the exercise, try adding extra weight. Wear a weighted vest or hold a dumbbell between your feet while doing the exercise to add more resistance.
  • Mix It Up: To keep your workouts interesting, mix up your pull up progressions. Try different variations such as chin ups, wide grip pull ups, and close grip pull ups. This will help to target different muscle groups and keep your workouts fresh.

Pull ups are a great exercise for building upper body strength, toning your back, and improving your posture. There are several different pull up progressions that you can use to level up and see better results. With the right equipment and proper form, you can incorporate pull up progressions into your regular workout routine and take your fitness to the next level.