Uneven Pull-Up
Level
intermediate
Force
pull
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
pull up bar Category
strength Secondary 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
- Grip the pull-up bar with one hand higher than the other (approximately 12-18 inches apart).
- Hang from the bar with a dead hang position, feet off the ground.
- Pull yourself upward, driving your elbows down and back toward your hips.
- The higher hand will do more work, while the lower hand provides assistance.
- Continue pulling until your chest approaches the bar or your chin clears it.
- 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.
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