Clap Pull-Up
Level
expert
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
pull up bar Category
plyometrics Secondary Muscles
An explosive pull-up variation where you generate enough momentum to clap your hands at the peak before catching the bar again.
Instructions
- Grip the pull-up bar with hands slightly wider than shoulder-width, palms facing away.
- Hang with arms fully extended and body straight.
- Pull yourself upward explosively, driving through your elbows and lats.
- As you reach peak height, generate enough momentum to release the bar and clap your hands together.
- Quickly return your hands to the bar and decelerate the descent with control.
- Return to the starting position with arms fully extended.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Tips
- This is an advanced movement; master strict pull-ups first
- Generate explosive power from your legs and core
- Practice the clap movement with a lower jump initially
- Use a thick bar pad for additional grip security
- This develops explosive pulling power and proprioception
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 7 reps |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 reps |
| Build endurance | 3 | 14 reps |