Tuck Back Lever
Level
expert
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
pull up bar Category
calisthenics Primary Muscles
Holding a horizontal or near-horizontal body position while hanging from a bar with knees tucked. Builds shoulder and core strength.
Instructions
- Grip a pull-up bar with your hands shoulder-width apart, overhand grip.
- Pull yourself up and lean backward, creating space between your body and the bar.
- Draw your knees toward your chest, tucking your legs underneath you.
- Maintain a horizontal or near-horizontal body position, supported by your arms and shoulders.
- Hold this position for the desired duration, keeping your core engaged.
- Return to the starting position with control.
Tips
- Engage your shoulders and chest strongly to maintain the horizontal position.
- Keep your core tight throughout the hold to prevent dropping your hips.
- Shift your shoulders to activate your lats and reduce arm strain.
- Practice progressively longer holds to build strength.
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 | Hold |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 5 s |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 s |
| Build endurance | 3 | 15 s |