Setup and loading
The thicker the band, the more assistance.
How to do the band-assisted pull-up step by step
- Loop the band around the bar and place one knee in the loop.
- Grab the bar with a medium or wide grip.
- Pull until your chin clears the bar and lower slowly.
Form cues
- Control the descent
- No swinging
Common mistakes
- Letting the band launch you
Sets and reps for your goal
Hypertrophy
3-4 x 8-12 · rest 60-90 s3-4 sets of 6-12 reps (up to 15-20 on isolation exercises) at 65-80% of your max. Rest 1 to 2 minutes.
Get close to failure (0-3 reps in reserve) and control the lowering for 2-3 seconds. Accumulate 10-20 sets per muscle per week.
Max Strength
4-5 x 3-6 · rest 2-3 min3-6 sets of 1-6 reps at 80-90% of your max (1RM). Rest 2 to 5 minutes.
Leave 1-3 reps in reserve. If your technique breaks down, lower the weight: strength is built with good reps.
A guide for healthy adults. Adjust the load to your level and see a professional if you have an injury.
Check your form
Film yourself from the side or ask someone to watch, then tick what you get right.
Sports it suits
Gear for this exercise
- Pull-up barWall-mounted beats doorway if you plan to add weight.
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