Underhand Pull Up: Video Tutorial & Exercise Guide

Author Claude Michael

Written By: Claude Michael

Updated: Oct 13, 2024

Workout Underhand Pull Up
Primary Muscle Group Lats
Secondary Muscle Group Traps
Equipment Required Pull-up Bar
Force Type Pull
Mechanics Compound
Exercise Type Strength
Difficulty Intermediate

Underhand Pull Up: Video Tutorial & Exercise Guide

Muscle Groups

Primary Muscle Group

Lats Muscle Exercises

Secondary Muscles Group

Underhand Pull Up (Chin-Up): Step-by-Step Guide

  • Step 1: Grab the pull-up bar with an underhand (supinated) grip, hands about shoulder-width apart. Let your arms fully extend, and keep your feet off the ground with your body in a straight line.
  • Step 2: Engage your core and initiate the movement by pulling your chest up toward the bar. Focus on driving your elbows down and back.
  • Step 3: Continue pulling until your chin clears the bar. At the top, squeeze your shoulder blades togClaude to fully engage your back muscles.
  • Step 4: Slowly lower yourself back to the starting position with control, fully extending your arms while keeping your body stable.
  • Step 5: Repeat for the desired number of reps, ensuring you maintain proper form and avoid swinging or kipping.

Underhand Pull Up (Chin-Up): Overview

The Underhand Pull Up, also known as the chin-up, is a bodyweight exercise that targets your back and biceps, with an emphasis on the biceps due to the underhand grip. It’s a versatile compound movement that improves upper-body strength and muscle endurance.

Chin-ups are slightly easier than traditional pull-ups because the underhand grip recruits more bicep involvement. This makes chin-ups a great exercise for building arm strength while still focusing on your back muscles.

Underhand Pull Up (Chin-Up): Benefits

The chin-up primarily works the biceps and lats, making it an effective exercise for building arm and upper back strength. It also engages the shoulders, core, and forearms, providing a full upper-body workout.

Chin-ups can help improve posture, increase grip strength, and enhance pulling strength, which carries over to other compound lifts like rows and deadlifts. They are also great for muscle hypertrophy in the arms and back.

Underhand Pull Up (Chin-Up): Pro Tips & Advanced Techniques

To maximize effectiveness, focus on using your biceps and lats to pull yourself up rather than relying on momentum. Keep your elbows close to your body as you pull and avoid swinging. For an added challenge, try weighted chin-ups by adding a weight belt or vest. Want to improve your form? Slow down the lowering phase to increase muscle tension and control.

Underhand Pull Up (Chin-Up): Progression Plan

Beginner

Sets: 3
Reps: 3-5
Progression Tips: Start with assisted chin-ups using a resistance band or a machine. Focus on form and building bicep and back strength.

Intermediate

Sets: 4
Reps: 6-8
Progression Tips: Move to unassisted chin-ups, gradually increasing reps and sets. Aim for full range of motion with each rep.

Advanced

Sets: 4-5
Reps: 8-12
Progression Tips: Incorporate weighted chin-ups for added resistance. Increase weight progressively to challenge your biceps and back muscles.

Underhand Pull Up: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What muscles do chin-ups target?

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Chin-ups primarily target the biceps and lats. They also engage the forearms, shoulders, and core for stabilization.

How do chin-ups differ from pull-ups?

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Chin-ups use an underhand grip and emphasize the biceps more than pull-ups, which use an overhand grip and focus more on the back muscles.

What’s the best way to progress in chin-ups?

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Start with assisted chin-ups or negative chin-ups (focusing on the lowering phase). Gradually reduce assistance and work on increasing the number of reps and sets as you build strength.

How often should I do chin-ups?

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Incorporate chin-ups 1-2 times per week as part of your upper-body routine. They pair well with other pulling exercises like rows and deadlifts.

What common mistakes should I avoid?

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Avoid swinging your body or using momentum. Focus on controlled movements and maintaining proper form throughout each rep.

Releted Exercises