Chin-Ups and Pull-Ups: Patience and Persistency

Chin-ups and pull-ups are some of the best ways to build your back.

However, to gain the strength to pull your body up- repetitively- takes time and persistency.

To start, you want to make sure you have proper form to make the most out of the movement: chest slightly out, shoulders back, and pulling through your lats- not your arms.

There are several ways to develop the strength to do chin-ups/pull-ups: the assisted dip machine, bands, putting your feet up on something, lat pull-downs are great too; but to be honest, I think it’s better not to use the assisted machine. You gotta be able to do them on your own.

Try doing one, and then holding yourself for as long as possible; or if you have a gym partner, ask them to give you a little boost, by lightly pushing up your feet. This way, you are up there more so as a result of your doing.

When I ditched the assisted machine and tried to do them on my own (despite only being able to do a few), is when my strength really developed. The assisted machine is good to start, but don’t rely on it. Get out there on your own.

Once you get chin-ups down, try progressing into pull-ups- they are more of a challenge.

* you may want to consider purchasing some gloves- callouses can be a pain

There is something so satisfactory and freeing about being able to do chin-ups and pull-ups. If you’re looking carve out your back, start implementing chin-ups/pull-ups more into your week.

Until next time:

Eat good food, laugh, and work hard!

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