Fit Fit City

Pulling: back and biceps

Assisted pull-up

Muscles worked: Lats · upper back · biceps

Assisted pull-up with a resistance band: straight-arm hang (left) and chin over the bar (right).
Start (left): straight-arm hang in the band. Finish (right): chin over the bar. Illustration: Fit Fit City.

How to do it

  1. Set up. Loop a strong resistance band over the bar and put one foot or knee in it, as in the picture, or use an assisted pull-up machine and kneel on its pad. Grip the bar just wider than your shoulders.
  2. Move. From a straight-arm hang, pull your chest up towards the bar by drawing your elbows down, until your chin is over the bar. Keep your trunk steady; avoid swinging or craning your neck.
  3. Finish. Lower under control to straight arms. Step out of the band carefully (or use the machine's steps to get off). A thicker band, or more machine assistance, makes it easier.

Common mistakes

Where it appears in the member plans

Fat-Loss Foundations, Strength Builder, Sports Fitness.

Log it, and beat it next time

In the member area every exercise has these cues next to your workout log, with last time’s numbers and a suggested target. £9.99 a month on a 12-month plan, or £79 a year, all taxes included.

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