Uneven Pull-Up

Level
intermediate
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
pull up bar
Category
strength
Primary Muscles

A pull-up variation where one arm pulls more than the other, typically with one hand higher on the bar. Builds unilateral pulling strength and core stability.

Instructions

  1. Grip the pull-up bar with one hand higher than the other (approximately 12-18 inches apart).
  2. Hang from the bar with a dead hang position, feet off the ground.
  3. Pull yourself upward, driving your elbows down and back toward your hips.
  4. The higher hand will do more work, while the lower hand provides assistance.
  5. Continue pulling until your chest approaches the bar or your chin clears it.
  6. Lower yourself with control to the starting position and repeat.

Tips

  • Alternate which hand is higher on each set to ensure balanced strength development.
  • Keep your body straight and avoid excessive swinging or kipping.
  • Engage your core to prevent rotation during the pull.
  • Breathe out as you pull up and inhale as you lower down.
  • Progress toward a full one-arm pull-up by gradually widening the hand gap.

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

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

intermediate strength
expert strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
expert strength
intermediate strength
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intermediate strength
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