Neutral Grip Pull-Up
Level
intermediate
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
pull up bar Category
strength Primary Muscles
A pull-up variation using a neutral hand position (palms facing each other), balancing between overhand and underhand grips for comprehensive back development.
Instructions
- Grip a pull-up bar with a neutral grip (palms facing each other) using specialized handles or a closer hand position on a pull-up bar.
- Hang from the bar with your arms fully extended and feet off the ground. This is your starting position.
- Pull yourself upward by driving your elbows down and back, engaging your back muscles.
- Continue pulling until your chest is at or near the level of the bar.
- Squeeze your back muscles at the top position, holding for a moment.
- Lower yourself under control back to the starting position with arms fully extended.
- Repeat for the prescribed number of repetitions.
Tips
- The neutral grip is easier on the shoulders compared to overhand grips.
- Keep your body relatively straight, with only minimal swinging.
- Focus on pulling with your back rather than your arms.
- Drive your elbows down and back, not straight up.
- Maintain constant tension throughout the entire movement.
- Perform this variation 2-3 times per week for optimal results.
- Add weight when bodyweight becomes too easy using a dip belt.
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 |
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