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Exercise library

Negative Pull-Up

Back · Vertical pull

Generic vertical pull demo. Follow the steps below for this exact exercise.

Vertical pullCompound

A pull-up where you jump or step to the top and lower as slowly as possible, the fastest route to a first rep.

Difficulty
Easy
Tracking
Measured in reps

Muscles worked

BackBicepsCore

Equipment

Pull-up bar

How to do it

  1. Set a box or step under the bar so you can start with your chin above it.
  2. Step or jump to the top position and hold with your chin over the bar and shoulders set.
  3. Lower yourself as slowly as you can, aiming for three to five seconds, until your arms are straight.
  4. Step back up to the top and repeat rather than trying to pull yourself up.

Coaching cues

  • Keep your shoulder blades pulled down at the start so you do not drop into a dead hang.
  • Stop the set when the lowering becomes a free fall.