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Chin-up

Back · Bodyweight · also biceps

Set up

A pull-up bar. An assisted pull-up machine, or a thick band looped over the bar, can take some of your weight.

Steps

  1. Hang from the bar with hands shoulder-width apart, palms facing you.
  2. Pull your shoulders down, away from your ears.
  3. Pull yourself up until your chin is over the bar.
  4. Lower yourself slowly until your arms are straight.

Keep in mind

  • Pull your elbows down towards your ribs
  • No swinging or kicking
  • Lower slowly, taking about two seconds

Common mistake

Dropping quickly at the bottom. Lower yourself slowly all the way until your arms are straight.

Safety

Use a bar that is fixed firmly and can take your weight. At the end, step down; don't drop.

Stop and rest if you feel chest pain, dizziness, unusual shortness of breath or sharp joint pain. Get medical help if it doesn't settle.